The second Tropical Depression of the current hurricane season, located in the Atlantic Ocean this Friday, has strengthened into a Tropical Storm and threatens to become a hurricane as it moves closer to Cuba.
INSMET Issues Warning
The Forecast Center of the Cuban Institute of Meteorology (INSMET) issued a second advisory at 11 PM this Friday, alerting the public to the formation of Tropical Storm Beryl, the second of the season following the formation of Alberto in mid-June.
"Tropical Depression Two showed signs of better circulation organization and an increase in heavy rain areas near its center, leading to its upgrade to Tropical Storm Beryl," the INSMET reported.
The tropical storm has maximum sustained winds of 65 kilometers per hour, with higher gusts and a minimum central pressure of 1006 hectopascals.
As of midnight Friday, Beryl was moving westward at 30 kilometers per hour, with its center located about 1,785 kilometers east-southeast of Barbados, the easternmost island of the Lesser Antilles.
"In the next 12 to 24 hours, it is expected to continue moving west-northwest, gaining more organization and intensity, and could become a hurricane by Sunday before reaching the Lesser Antilles, the eastern boundary of the Caribbean Sea," warned the Forecast Center of the INSMET.
The next advisory on this system will be issued at 6 PM this Saturday. According to the INSMET, "due to its development and future trajectory, there is close monitoring of this tropical cyclone."
Frequently Asked Questions About Tropical Storm Beryl
Here are some common questions and answers regarding Tropical Storm Beryl and its potential impact.
What is the current status of Tropical Storm Beryl?
As of the latest advisory, Tropical Storm Beryl has maximum sustained winds of 65 kilometers per hour and is moving westward at 30 kilometers per hour.
Is Tropical Storm Beryl expected to become a hurricane?
Yes, it is forecasted that Beryl could strengthen into a hurricane by Sunday before reaching the Lesser Antilles.
How is Cuba preparing for Tropical Storm Beryl?
The Cuban Institute of Meteorology (INSMET) is closely monitoring the storm's development and future trajectory, with regular advisories to keep the public informed.