Barbados is now under a hurricane warning as Tropical Storm Beryl was upgraded to a hurricane.
Hurricane Beryl continues to intensify and is expected to become a major hurricane before reaching the island late Sunday night.
On the current projected track, the centre of Beryl is expected to pass 40 miles (74 km) south of Barbados. The island is expected to feel the impacts associated with this system as early as Monday morning.
At 5 p.m. Saturday, the centre was located near 10.1N 49.3W or about 1 160 km (720 miles) east-southeast of Barbados. Maximum sustained winds are 75 MPH (120 KM/H) and present movement is towards the west at 22 MPH (35 KM/H). The minimum central pressure is 992mb.
During the passage of Beryl, hurricane-force winds and rainfall accumulations of two to four inches are forecast. Severe thunderstorm activity may cause multiple interruptions to power utilities and services. Marine conditions will be hazardous ahead of and during the passage of Beryl.
A small craft and high surf warning remain in effect for above-normal sea swells.
A hurricane warning is issued when sustained winds of 64 knots or greater (74 mph; 119kmh) associated with a hurricane are forecast to affect Barbados within 36 hours.
The public is encouraged to follow the advice provided by the Department of Emergency Management and other local officials.
The next update will be at 8 p.m. (PR/SAT)
