7:00 a.m. ERNESTO GRADUALLY STRENGTHENS

TROPICAL STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FOR JAMAICA AS ERNESTO GRADUALLY STRENGTHENS



As Tropical Storm Ernesto continues to strengthen and move closer to Jamaica, the Tropical Storm Watch remains in effect for the island. This means that tropical storm conditions still pose a possible threat within 36 hours.



At 7:00 a.m. the centre of Tropical Storm Ernesto was located near Latitude 15.0 degrees North, Longitude 70.6 degrees West. This is about 395 kilometres (245 miles) south-southwest of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, or 680 kilometres (420 miles) east-southeast of Morant Point, Jamaica.



Ernesto is moving towards the west-northwest near 24 km/h (15 mph) and this general motion is expected to continue for the next 24 hours.



Maximum sustained winds have increased to near 80 km/h (50 mph), with higher gusts, and additional strengthening is possible today. Tropical storm force winds extend outward up to 185 kilometres (115 miles) from the centre.



The centre of Ernesto is still projected to start passing over Jamaica by midday tomorrow. Residents should, therefore, expect storm-force winds to spread over the island, along with heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, beginning on Sunday morning. Flash flooding and landslides are likely.



Small craft operators, including fishers from the cays and banks, should by now be arriving in port to start preparations for safe harbour. Other small craft operators in port are reminded 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 Ernesto will be issued at 11:00 a.m. today.