Tropical Storm Watch in effect – Tomas begins to turn

A Tropical Storm Watch remains in effect for Jamaica as Tropical Depression Tomas reorganizes itself. This means that tropical storm conditions now pose a possible threat to the island within 48 hours.
At 1:00 p.m. the centre of Tropical Depression Tomas was located near Latitude 14.8 degrees North, Longitude 75.0 degrees West; about 370 km (230 miles) south-southeast of Morant Point, Jamaica or 505 km (315 miles) southwest of Port-au-Prince, Haiti.
Tomas is now moving towards the north-northwest near 11 km/h (7 mph). A turn towards the 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 and Tomas could regain tropical storm strength by Thursday.
On the current forecast track, Tomas is expected to move past the east coast of Jamaica by late Thursday on its way towards Haiti. The system is forecast to be a tropical storm during that time. Satellite imagery shows that Tomas has become disorganized; however, reconnaissance aircraft has confirmed the location of its centre within a broad area of low-pressure. Rainfall associated with the system could start affecting Jamaica as early as this evening, starting with southern and eastern parishes. Showers and possible thunderstorms should increase on Thursday and Friday as the system moves closer to the island. Gusty winds reaching near tropical storm force could be experienced over sections of eastern parishes on Friday.
All small craft operators including fishers from the cays and banks should by now have completed all the necessary safety precautions and are advised to remain in safe harbour until all warning messages have been lifted and wind and sea conditions have returned to normal.
The Meteorological Service continues to monitor the progress of this system, and all interests should pay special attention to further Releases.