Tropical Storm Lee's projected path. Photo Credit: WEATHER CHANNEL
Tropical Storm Lee has formed in the Atlantic, and the National Hurricane Center is forecasting rapid intensification into an extremely dangerous hurricane by the weekend. Although current projections suggest the hurricane will pass north of the U.S. Virgin Islands by Saturday, authorities are cautioning that these projections could change and are urging residents and local governments to prepare.
As of 5:00 p.m. AST, Tropical Storm Lee was located approximately 1315 miles east of the Lesser Antilles, moving west-northwest at 16 mph. The system has maximum sustained winds of 45 mph and a minimum central pressure of 1005 mb (29.68 inches).
The tropical cyclone is expected to continue its west-northwest trajectory over the next few days, albeit at a slightly reduced speed. Meteorologists warn that Lee could become a major hurricane by Friday. "It's becoming a question of when and not if rapid intensification occurs with Lee," states the National Hurricane Center's latest discussion on the storm. Lee is also expected to move over extremely warm waters, providing the necessary fuel for intensification.
While no watches or warnings are in effect as of yet, the NHC advises that interests in the Leeward Islands should closely monitor this developing situation. "Lee is forecast to become a major hurricane by this weekend and could bring impacts to the Leeward Islands by that time," warns the advisory.
Although the estimated hazards affecting land are currently unspecified, the NHC emphasizes the importance of staying updated as Lee could pose significant risks. The next complete advisory will be issued at 11:00 p.m. AST.
Current projections suggest that Lee will pass as a hurricane north of the U.S. Virgin Islands by Saturday. Interests in the Leeward Islands and the USVI should monitor updates and consider preliminary preparations.
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