The Barbados Meteorological Services is monitoring the progress of two weather systems over the tropical Atlantic.
At 11 a.m. today, the eye of Hurricane Irma was centred near 18.5°North, 37.8°West or about 1 580 miles (2 540 km) to the east of the Leeward Islands. Irma was moving towards the west-northwest at 13 mph (20 km/h), with maximum sustained winds near 110 mph (175 km/h).
Irma is expected to undergo some fluctuations in its direction of motion over the next few days, along with a gradual strengthening.
Model guidance is suggesting that the system could again become a major hurricane (>= Category 3) by the time it approaches the northern part of the island chain during the first half of next week (late Tuesday into Wednesday).
This system poses no immediate threat to Barbados but it will continue to be closely monitored.
The approach of Irma will result in a general drop-off in wind speeds across the island, leading to warmer and hence uncomfortable conditions. In addition, some deterioration in sea swells can be expected from late Monday into Tuesday. Swells are expected to peak between 3.0-3.5 metres.
The other feature is a tropical wave over the far eastern Atlantic with axis now near 25°West. This system is expected to approach the region towards the latter part of next week (late Thursday into Friday). Some of the model guidance is suggesting the potential for tropical cyclone formation, and this system will also be closely monitored as it makes its way across the Atlantic.
Residents in Barbados should continue to monitor the progress of these systems.
This information will be updated as conditions warrant.
This and other related information may be obtained from barbadosweather.org/www.agriculture.gov.bb or by dialling 976-2376. (NB)