Tropical Storm Watch still in effect as Noel Forms - Fishers urged to evacuate

The Tropical Storm Watch for Jamaica remains in effect as the Season’s 14th Tropical Storm, NOEL (pronounced NOLE), forms over the north-central Caribbean. This means that tropical storm conditions pose a possible threat to the

island within 36 hours.



At 1:00 p.m. the centre of Tropical Storm Noel was located near Latitude 16.5 degrees North, Longitude 72.5 degrees West. This is about 235 kilometres (150 miles) south-southeast of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, or 385 kilometres (240 miles) east-southeast of Morant Point, Jamaica.



The tropical storm is moving towards the north-northwest near 8 km/h (5 mph) and a general motion towards the northwest is expected during the next 24 hours.



Maximum sustained winds have increased to near 85 km/h (50 mph), with higher gusts, and additional strengthening is forecast during the next 24 hours.



The forecast track of Tropical Storm Noel has been adjusted slightly to have the centre passing over the western Haitian Peninsula, east of Jamaica, on Monday

morning before continuing towards southeastern Cuba later in the day. Noel is, however, expected to produce more rainfall over Jamaica, tonight and tomorrow, as well as gusty winds and above-normal waves, especially along the eastern and northern coastline.



Fishers on the cays and banks are advised to evacuate immediately and start returning to the mainland with a view to arriving in port by midnight tonight. Expect sea conditions to deteriorate in showers, thunderstorms and strong northerly winds tonight and tomorrow as the tropical storm passes to the east. Other small craft operators in coastal waters are advised to return to port and those in port are advised not to venture out.



The Meteorological Service will continue to monitor the progress of this system and all interests should pay special attention to subsequent Releases.



The next Bulletin on Tropical Storm Noel will be issued at 5:00 p.m.