The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service has issued a Tropical Storm Watch for Barbuda, as Tropical Storm Jerry continues to strengthen while moving rapidly across the Atlantic toward the northern Leeward Islands.

According to the National Hurricane Center’s 5 p.m. advisory, Jerry is located near latitude 12.0°N and longitude 46.4°W, approximately 1,190 miles (1,920 km) east-southeast of the northern Leeward Islands.

The storm is currently moving west at 23 mph (37 km/h) with maximum sustained winds near 50 mph (85 km/h) and higher gusts.

Meteorologists say steady strengthening is expected, and Jerry could become a hurricane within 24 hours.

Watches and Warnings in Effect

Tropical Storm Watch:
Barbuda and Anguilla
St. Barthelemy and St. Martin
Sint Maarten

Residents in Antigua, as well as the British and U.S. Virgin Islands, are advised to closely monitor the storm’s progress, as additional watches or warnings may be issued later tonight.
Expected Impacts

Winds: Tropical-storm-force winds could reach portions of the northern Leeward Islands late Thursday into Friday.

Rainfall: Between 2 to 4 inches of rain are expected across the Leewards, with potential for flash flooding, especially in hilly or low-lying areas.

Forecasters anticipate a slight decrease in Jerry’s forward speed and a turn toward the west-northwest in the coming days, which could bring the system close to or just north of the Leeward Islands later this week.

The MET Office continues to urge residents to review their emergency plans and begin early preparations in case storm conditions develop.

Further updates will be provided as new advisories are issued by the National Hurricane Center and the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service.