Tropical Storm Jerry nearing hurricane strength, expected to steer clear of Florida
ORLANDO, Fla. (FOX 35 ORLANDO) - Tropical Storm Jerry's inner core is becoming better organized, and the system will likely become a hurricane.
As of 8:00 a.m., the storm has maximum sustained winds of 70 mph, and the center of circulation is located about 525 miles east of the Leeward Islands. Jerry is moving west-northwest at 16 mph.
According to the National Hurricane Center, the storm will strengthen to a Category 1 hurricane on Thursday, with winds at 80 mph through Friday morning.
Jerry's core is expected to pass north of the Leeward Islands but tropical-storm-force winds and locally heavy rainfall are possible in the area.
Tropical storm watches have been issued for Barbuda, Anguilla, St. Maarten, St. Martin, St. Barthelemy, and Saba and St. Eustatius.
The storm will be steered clear of the Bahamas and Florida.
A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for...
* Barbuda
* Anguilla
* St. Maarten
* St. Martin
* St. Barthelemy
* Saba and St. Eustatius
Meanwhile, Humberto is still a major Category 3 hurricane, but is expected to weaken as it moves northeast at 22 mph. The center of circulation is about 250 miles Northeast of Bermuda, with maximum sustained winds of 125 mph.
Large swells and dangerous surf will continue along the coast of Bermuda, with coastal flooding a main concern.
Swells will continue to affect the northwestern Bahamas and the Southeastern coast of the United States from east-central Florida to North Carolina through Friday and Saturday.
Expect life-threatening surf and rip current conditions at our beaches.
TRACK THE TROPICS: OrlandoHurricane.com
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