Hurricane Matthew - Severe Weather Alert Remains in Effect for Jamaica
The Meteorological Service has continued the Severe Weather Alert for Jamaica as Hurricane Matthew is heading towards the central Caribbean Sea.
At 4:00 a.m. the centre of Hurricane Matthew was located near latitude 14.0 degrees North, longitude 69.9 degrees West or 860 km east-southeast of Kingston, Jamaica.
Matthew is moving towards the west near 22 km/h and this general motion with a decrease in forward speed is forecast through Saturday.
Hurricane Matthew is passing to the north of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao. Forecast models expect the hurricane to continue on its westward path on Friday and Saturday and then turn towards the north, bringing it closer to the Jamaica area on Sunday and Monday. A Hurricane Watch may be required for Jamaica later today.
Maximum sustained winds are near 155 km/h with higher gusts. Strengthening is forecast during the next 48 hours, and Matthew could become a major hurricane later today or tonight.
Fishers on the cays and banks are advised to evacuate immediately and start returning to the mainland. Other small craft operators in our coastal waters are advised to return to port. Small craft operators who are in port are advised not to venture out.
The Meteorological Service will continue to closely monitor this system.
WARNING MESSAGE (MARINE)
Fishers on the cays and banks are advised to evacuate immediately and start returning to the mainland. Other small craft operators in our coastal waters are advised to return to port. Small craft operators who are in port are advised not to venture out.
Published: 2016-09-30 05:40:48