LOCATION: 16.4 degrees North, 63.3 degrees West
DISTANCE: ABOUT 146 MILES EAST SOUTH EAST OF THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS
MOVEMENT: WEST NEAR 16 MPH
MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS: 50 MPH
MINIMUM CENTRAL PRESSURE: 1006 MB
At 11:00 a.m., the centre of Tropical Storm Erika was estimated near latitude 16.4 degrees north, longitude 63.3 degrees west or about 146 miles east-southeast of the BVI. Erika is moving toward the west near 16 mph.
Aircraft data indicate that Erika has temporarily turned from a west-northwestward motion to a westward motion. While an erratic motion with centre relocation is possible today due to strong shear and land interaction, an overall west-northwestward motion is expected for the next two to three days.
The hurricane reconnaissance aircraft confirmed that winds remain near 50 mph with higher gusts. Strong shear and land interaction should cause weakening during the next day or so.
On the forecast track, the centre of Erika will move near the Virgin Islands later today. Tropical storm force winds extend outward up to 105 miles, mainly to the north and east of the centre. The minimum central pressure estimated from Air Force Hurricane Hunter aircraft data is 1006 mb.
A Tropical Storm Warning is still in effect for the British Virgin Islands. A Tropical Storm Warning means that tropical storm conditions are expected within the British Virgin Islands today.
Heavy showers and storms are likely to affect the Virgin Islands later today. The showers and storms could result in localised flooding. Some of the strongest storms could contain wind gusts strong enough to cause scattered power outages.
The Antigua/Barbuda Meteorological Service issued a marine warning for mariners, small craft operators and sea bathers and this remains in effect. Mariners should have already sought safe anchorage for their vessels, as seas could deteriorate and peak near 12 feet during the passage of Erika.
Residents are encouraged to be vigilant and monitor the updates issued by the National Emergency Operations Centre as forecasters continue to make adjustments in the projected track and intensity of Tropical Storm Erika.
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Disclaimer: The Department of Disaster Management (DDM) is not an official Meteorological Office. The Information disseminated by the Department is gathered from a number of professional sources used or contracted by the DDM to provide such information. This information is to be used as a guide by anyone who has interest in local weather conditions. By no means can the DDM or the BVI Government be held accountable by anyone who uses this information appropriately for legal evidence or in justification of any decision which may result in the loss of finances, property or life.