Analysis by LH
Category five hurricane “IRMA” continues to rage after passing over the northern islands of the lesser Antilles and the British Virgin Islands, with sustained winds reaching up to 300km/h and a central pressure of only 916hPa.
The storm is the longest to have sustained such high wind speeds since the beginning of the satellite observation era in 1966.
What is the forecast?
As of now, it looks like the storm will continue to move towards the west-northwest until Friday, when it will turn quite sharply and continue towards the north-northwest. As of now, the center of Irma is expected to be within 50 miles of Miami on Sunday Morning.
Warnings and Watches
A hurricane warning has been issued for the northern parts of the island Hispaniola, with a tropical storm warning being in effect for much of the rest. Hurricane Irma has the potential to be a very serious storm for the Bahamas as well, and hurricane warnings have been issued for the islands. Irma, with extremely high winds and also a significant storm surge, will pose a serious threat to all residents; hence residents of the Bahamas should immediately begin preparations. A hurricane watch (and partial tropical storm warning) have been issued also for Cuba, as it is possible that hurricane-forced winds strike the island.
The entirety of Florida is currently within the 5-day uncertainty area for Hurricane Irma, so residents would be advised to take some general preparations and keep a close eye on the development and track of Hurricane Irma. The National Hurricane Center will issue warnings and watches when details become clearer.