Tropical Storm Jerry is on track to strengthen into a Category 1 hurricane as it approaches the Caribbean. However, environmental factors may minimize its impact on the Leeward Islands, potentially sparing them from hurricane-force winds and heavy rainfall.
Tropical Storm Jerry: Current Status
As of Thursday morning, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) reported that Jerry was positioned 355 miles east-southeast of the northern Leeward Islands. The storm was generating maximum sustained winds of 65 mph and was moving west-northwest at a speed of 20 mph.
Forecast for Jerry
Forecasters predict that Jerry will become a Category 1 hurricane by Friday afternoon. Notably, the storm’s strongest winds are located on its eastern side, which reduces the likelihood of sustained tropical storm-force winds reaching the islands.
- Maximum sustained winds: 65 mph
- Current location: 355 miles east-southeast of the northern Leeward Islands
- Movement: West-northwest at 20 mph
Impact on the Leeward Islands
While Jerry is not expected to pose a direct threat to the Leeward Islands, residents are advised to remain vigilant. Heavy rainfall is still anticipated in certain areas, and a tropical storm watch has been issued for parts of the Caribbean.
Other Weather Developments
In addition to Tropical Storm Jerry, the NHC noted a non-tropical low pressure system located several hundred miles west-northwest of the Azores. This system is generating some showers but has a low chance of further development.
Forecast for the Non-Tropical System
- Location: West-northwest of the Azores
- Development chance: 10% within the next week
- Threat level: Not a risk to Louisiana
Forecasters indicate that this system is likely to weaken as it moves into cooler waters and faces stronger wind shear.
As the situation evolves, residents of the Leeward Islands and surrounding areas should monitor updates from the National Hurricane Center regarding Tropical Storm Jerry and other developments in the Atlantic.
