ENTORNOINTELIGENTE.COM / THE Tropical Storm Watch for Jamaica has been upgraded to a Tropical Storm Warning, while a Hurricane Watch has also been issued as computer models continue to project a stronger Sandy approaching the island tomorrow.This means that tropical storm conditions, including possible sustained wind speeds of 34−63 knots or 63−118 km/h (40−74 mph), are expected in 36 hours or less and that hurricane conditions also pose a possible threat to the country within 48 hours.At 4:00 am, the centre of Tropical Storm Sandy was located near Latitude 13.3 degrees North, Longitude 78.6 degrees West, or about 555 kilometres (345 miles) south−southwest of Kingston, or 400 kilometres (250 miles) south of the Pedro Cays.Tropical Storm Sandy is now moving northward near 6 km/h (3 mph) and a north to north−northeast motion with some increase in forward speed is expected during the next day or two. On this forecast track, the centre of the tropical storm will begin to move across Jamaica from south to north tomorrow afternoon.Maximum sustained winds remain near 75 km/h (45 mph), with higher gusts. Strengthening is expected during the next 48 hours and Sandy is forecast to be a hurricane as it approaches Jamaica tomorrow. Tropical storm force winds extend outward up to 150 kilometres (90 miles), primarily east of the centre. Over the next 24−36 hours, rainfall is expected to increase significantly over Jamaica to produce over 250 millimeters (10 inches), especially over central and eastern sections of the island. Flash flooding and landslides are likely. Tropical storm conditions are expected by early tomorrow morning and hurricane conditions later in the day. Storm surge is also possible along the southeastern coastline of the island.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. www.entornointeligente.com

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