The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has confirmed a U.S. Air Force reconnaissance mission to investigate potential Tropical Cyclone 19 in the western Caribbean Thursday morning.
The developing system, which the NHC has been closely monitored, it has a high probability of evolving into a tropical depression in the next few hours.
The system is currently located between longitudes 77W and 78W, south of Jamaica, and is moving slowly westward, with a northwesterly turn projected for early next week.
Meteorological conditions in the area, including temperatures and atmospheric pressure, are favorable for strengthening. Strong winds and significant waves are already affecting the area, and the system is expected to bring heavy rains to Jamaica and the Cayman Islands in the coming days, increasing the risk of local flooding.
The forecast indicates that within 30 to 48 hours, the Gulf of Honduras and nearby areas could experience near-storm-force winds and very rough seas, conditions conducive to cyclone development.
The aerial reconnaissance mission aims to gather more precise data on the structure and intensity of the system, allowing for better prediction of its trajectory and development.
Given the high probability of hurricane formation, the NHC recommends that residents of the western Caribbean and Central America stay informed through official updates. For more real-time details, the NHC website www.hurricanes.gov offers complete reports.
Alert in Cuba and Florida
Previously, several forecasts have indicated different possible trajectories, scattered among themselves, although all agree that after a couple of days of near-static movement, the system would move northward or northwestward before settling over western Cuba or southern Florida.
Renowned meteorologist Dr. José Rubiera warned in a recent video that both territories should pay close attention to the course of the phenomenon.