The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has released an advisory concerning Tropical Depression Eighteen, which is currently moving through the Caribbean. As of 10:00 AM EST, the system was located approximately 310 km south of Kingston, Jamaica, and 645 km southeast of Grand Cayman. The depression is generating maximum sustained winds of 55 km/h, traveling northward at 15 km/h with a central pressure of 1003 mb.
In its latest update, the NHC noted that the Cuban government has issued a Hurricane Watch for the provinces of Pinar del Río, Artemisa, Havana, Mayabeque, Matanzas, and the Island of Youth. Additionally, a Tropical Storm Watch is in place for the provinces of Villa Clara, Cienfuegos, Sancti Spíritus, Ciego de Ávila, Camagüey, and Las Tunas. These precautionary measures are intended to prepare for potential hurricane and tropical storm conditions within the next 48 hours.
The forecast suggests that Tropical Depression Eighteen will maintain its northward path before veering northwest. It is expected to approach Jamaica tonight, pass near the Cayman Islands on Tuesday, and head towards Cuba by Wednesday. This morning, a hurricane hunter aircraft flew over the central Caribbean's low-pressure area and found a well-defined circulation center. Continuous strengthening is anticipated, with the system likely developing into a tropical storm later today and potentially reaching hurricane status by midweek.
Authorities are warning of significant potential impacts in Cuba. Hurricane conditions are expected in the western part of the country and on the Island of Youth by Wednesday, while the central region may experience tropical storm conditions. The associated rainfall could be intense, with expected accumulations of 75 to 150 mm and local maxima reaching up to 225 mm, potentially causing floods and landslides in vulnerable areas. Moreover, storm surges could raise water levels by 0.6 to 1.2 meters along the southern coast of Pinar del Río and the Island of Youth. An increase in wave activity is also anticipated to affect much of the western Caribbean in the coming days.
Residents in watch and warning areas are urged to monitor updates closely and finalize any necessary preparations to safeguard lives and property. For the latest local information, it is advised to consult the Cuban Institute of Meteorology and follow the National Hurricane Center's reports.