Tropical Storm watch continues for Jamaica

BULLETIN No: 9



The Meteorological Service has maintained the Tropical Storm Watch for Jamaica. This means that tropical storm conditions pose a possible threat to the island within 36 hours.



At 7:00 a.m. the centre of Tropical Storm Noel was located near Latitude 18.3 degrees North, Longitude 72.4 degrees West. This is about 400 kilometres (250 miles) east of Morant Point, Jamaica, or near Port-au-Prince, Haiti.



Noel is moving towards the north-northwest near 9 km/h (6 mph) and this general motion is expected to continue, with a turn towards the northwest, within the next 24 hours.



Maximum sustained winds have decreased to near 70 km/h (45 mph), with higher gusts, and further weakening is forecast today.



Tropical Storm Noel is now moving over sections of Haiti, and is expected to re-strengthen after entering the western Atlantic Ocean in the vicinity of the southern Bahamas tonight. The storm could, however, continue to produce outer bands of rainfall across sections of Jamaica today as it moves northward. Sea conditions will also deteriorate in showers and thunderstorms.



Fishers on the cays and banks are advised to remain in safe harbour until all warning messages have been lifted and wind and sea conditions have returned to normal.



It is likely that the Tropical Storm Watch will be discontinued for Jamaica in the next Bulletin as the Meteorological Service continues to monitor the progress of this system. All interests should pay special attention to subsequent Releases.



The next Bulletin on Tropical Storm Noel will be issued at 11:00 a.m.