Hurricane Watch Issued for Cayman Islands as Tropical Storm Approaches
MIAMI – A hurricane watch has been announced for the Cayman Islands, while Jamaica is under a tropical storm warning as a significant weather system gathers strength in the Caribbean. This comes as the National Hurricane Center in Miami forecasts the system could potentially strengthen into a hurricane in the northwestern Caribbean this week.
Current Situation of the Storm
As of early Monday morning, the storm was approximately 275 miles (445 kilometers) south of Kingston, Jamaica, and around 465 miles (745 kilometers) southeast of Grand Cayman. The system, currently classified as “Potential Tropical Cyclone Eighteen”, is moving north at a speed of 6 mph (9 kph) and has maximum sustained winds recorded at 35 mph (55 kph).
Potential for Hurricane Development
According to the National Hurricane Center, a storm develops into a hurricane when its maximum sustained winds reach 74 mph (119.1 kph) or greater. On the other hand, winds between 39 mph (62.8 kph) and 73 mph (117.5 kph) classify the storm as a tropical storm.
Impact on Regional Areas
The storm is expected to approach Jamaica by late Monday and will potentially reach the Cayman Islands by Tuesday and Wednesday. Residents in Cuba and the Florida Keys have been urged to closely monitor the storm’s development.
Heavy rainfall is anticipated across the western Caribbean, with totals of 3 to 6 inches (76 to 152 mm) of rain likely. Some areas in Jamaica and southern Cuba could see even higher amounts, with localized totals of up to 9 inches (229 mm). These conditions raise the risk of flooding and mudslides in the affected regions.
Forecast for the Southeastern United States
As the storm progresses, heavy rains are also expected to reach Florida and surrounding areas in the southeastern United States later this week. Residents in these locations should prepare for potential effects from the storm.
The National Hurricane Center continues to monitor the weather systems and will provide updates as the situation evolves. It is crucial for everyone in the impacted areas to stay informed and prepared for possible weather changes.
Conclusion
As the Caribbean prepares for the potential impact of this storm, safety measures and heightened awareness are vital. The forecast emphasizes that residents should pay attention to local updates and be ready for adverse weather in the upcoming days.
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
