The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is closely monitoring a disturbance in the Caribbean Sea that is expected to become a tropical storm later today. A Tropical Storm Warning has been issued for Jamaica as the system approaches the island.
Potential Tropical Cyclone Eighteen:
This disturbance, located in the south-central Caribbean Sea, is showing increasing signs of organization. While a well-defined center has not yet formed, the system is producing increasing shower and thunderstorm activity.
READ: Hillsborough County Extends State Of Emergency Due To Hurricane Milton
Forecast Track and Intensity:
The disturbance is forecast to move generally northwestward, approaching Jamaica tonight and Tuesday. It is then expected to move near or over the Cayman Islands and western Cuba on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Strengthening is likely, and the system is expected to become a tropical storm later today. It could become a hurricane by Tuesday night, posing a risk of hurricane-force winds and storm surge in the Cayman Islands and western Cuba.
READ: NHC: Potential Tropical Cyclone Eighteen Threatens Jamaica, Cuba, And Potentially Florida
The long-range forecast track and intensity are uncertain, but the system is expected to enter the western Gulf of Mexico later this week.
Watches and Warnings:
- A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for Jamaica.
- Hurricane and tropical storm watches could be issued for portions of Cuba and the Florida Keys later today.
Potential Impacts:
- Jamaica: Heavy rain and tropical storm conditions are expected tonight and Tuesday.
- Cayman Islands and Western Cuba: Risk of hurricane-force winds and storm surge Tuesday and Wednesday.
- Cuba and Florida Keys: Potential for hurricane or tropical storm conditions later this week.
- Gulf Coast: Possible impacts later this week, but it is too early to determine specifics.
Heavy Rainfall:
Heavy rain is expected across portions of the western Caribbean, including Jamaica and Cuba, through mid-week, with potential for flooding and mudslides. This heavy rainfall could spread northward into Florida and the southeastern U.S. later in the week.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Android Users: Download our free app to stay up-to-date on the latest news.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.