Tropical Depression Tomas moving slowly – Hurricane Watch still in effect

A Hurricane Watch remains in effect for Jamaica as Tropical Depression Tomas is expected to re-strengthen today and tomorrow and then move close to the island. This means that hurricane conditions still pose a possible threat within 48 hours.
At 7:00 a.m. the centre of Tropical Depression Tomas was located near Latitude 13.7 degrees North, Longitude 75.8 degrees West; about 490 km (300 miles) south of Morant Point, Jamaica or 660 km (410 miles) southwest of Port-au-Prince, Haiti.
Tomas is now moving towards the west near 7 km/h (5 mph). A turn towards the northwest, north and then north-northeast is expected over the next 48 hours.
Maximum sustained winds are near 55 km/h (35 mph), with higher gusts; however, re-strengthening is forecast during the next 48 hours.
Based on the current forecast track, Tropical Depression Tomas could begin to produce increased rainfall across Jamaica, starting with southern and eastern parishes, as early as this evening, increasing on Thursday and Friday as the system moves closer. Increases in wind speed will begin later in this cycle and could peak with near-hurricane force winds over eastern sections of the island on Friday.
All small craft operators, including fishers from the cays and banks, should by now be in port and are urged to complete their necessary safety precautions without delay.
The Meteorological Service continues to monitor the progress of this system, and all interests should pay special attention to further Releases.