At 11:00 AM (0900 UTC), the center of tropical storm Fiona was located near latitude 16.3 North, longitude 63.5 West or about 120 miles south of St. Maarten. Fiona is moving toward the west near 08 mph (13 km/h). A west-northwestward motion at a similar speed is expected to begin later today, followed by a turn toward the northwest by Sunday evening.
Maximum sustained winds are near 60 mph (95 km/h) with higher gusts. Gradual strengthening is forecast and Fiona is expected to become a hurricane Sunday or Sunday night.
Tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 125 miles (255 km) from the center. The estimated minimum central pressure is 1004 mb (29.65 inches).
HAZARDS AFFECTING LAND:
RAINFALL: Fiona could produce additional rain accumulation of up to 4 inches over the local area. This rainfall may be accompanied by thunderstorms and will cause flooding and possible rock falls. Therefore, a Flood advisory is in effect for St. Maarten.
WINDS: Strong to near gale (20-35mph) east northeasterly to southeasterly winds will continue today with gusts up to or near storm-force. A gust of 41kt/47mph was recorded at the PJIA early this morning.
SEAS: Seas will be rough to very rough with swells up to 15 feet today. A small craft warning will remain in effect for St. Maarten until further notice. All small craft operators and sea bathers should stay out of the water until further notice is given.
The public and in particular residents in areas prone to flooding or near the coast should remain vigilant and monitor the updates from the Meteorological Department and Disaster Management.
