A tropical storm warning and hurricane watch remain in effect for Barbados.
A tropical storm warning means that tropical storm conditions are expected within the warning area within 36 hours. A hurricane watch means that hurricane conditions are possible within the watch area, in this case within 36 hours.
Barbados Meteorological Services said in a bulletin that at 11 a.m. today, Tropical Storm Gonzalo was located near 10.0N 54.2W or about 385 miles (620 km) east south east of Barbados. Maximum sustained winds have decreased to 50 mph (85 km/h). Storm-force winds extend outward only to 25 miles (35 km) from the centre. Gonzalo is moving westward or 275 degrees at 18 mph or 30 km/h. Minimum central pressure is 1 002 MB (29.59 inches).
Significant convection associated with Gonzalo has not become better organised since the last advisory. Further re-strengthening is not expected, however it is expected to reach near hurricane strength as it moves towards the southern Windwards.
On its forecast track, the centre of Tropical Storm Gonzalo is expected to pass approximately 110 miles (180 km) to the south of Barbados on Saturday. An Air Force Reserve reconnaissance aircraft is on its way into the system, according to the bulletin.
Sustained storm force winds are likely to spread across Barbados from Saturday morning, possibly increasing to hurricane force during the afternoon. Sustained wind speeds of 45 to 65 mph (70 to 105 km/h) with higher gusts are likely.
Tropical Storm Gonzalo is also likely to generate rough to very rough sea swells. A small craft warning and a high surf warning have been issued.
Rainfall accumulation of 1-3 inches (25 to 75 mm) is likely. The next intermediate advisory will be issued at 2 p.m. (PR)
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