Summit County Citizens Voice

Tropical Storm Emily is starting to move through the Caribbean Basin.

Long-term outlook uncertain, as circulation may collapse over Hispaniola

By Summit Voice

SUMMIT COUNTY — As expected, an area of disturbed weather near the Lesser Antilles has developed a well-defined eye and is now categorized as Tropical Storm Emily, bringing tropical storm conditions to the Windward Islands. A storm surge will raise water levels by one to two feet above normal tides and generate dangerous surf.

Emily has maximum sustained winds of 40 mph and is expected to strengthen gradually during the next 48 hours. Tropical storm-force winds extend out about 70 miles from the center, mainly to the north. Lack of mid-level moisture may prevent the storm from reaching hurricane strength in the immediate future, according to forecasters with the National Hurricane Center.

Emily could fall apart when it encounters the rugged mountains of Hispaniola in a couple of days, according to the National Hurricane Center. If the circulation survives, the storm could strengthen again in the medium-term. Beyond that, models are having a hard time forecasting a potential track, which could be anywhere from east of the Bahamas to southern Florida. Read the forecast discussion here.

For now, tropical storm warnings have been issued for Dominica, the islands of Guadeloupe, Puerto Rico, Vieques and Culebra and the Dominican Republic, where tropical storm conditions can be expected within the next 36 hours.

A tropical storm watch is in effect for the U.S. Virgin Islands, Haiti, St. Kitts, Nevis, Montserrat and Antigua.

Filed under: climate and weather, Environment | Tagged: Dominican Republic, Emily tropical storm warnings, Hurricane season 2011, Lesser Antilles, National Hurricane Center, Puerto Rico, Tropical cyclone, Tropical cyclone warnings and watches, Tropical Storm Emily, Windward Islands | Leave a Comment »