BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – AS the 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season approaches its peak, residents of St. Kitts and Nevis are advised to closely monitor an Atlantic disturbance currently situated in the central Atlantic Ocean.
The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Office has reported that Disturbance AL98 has entered the monitored area. As of 2:00 p.m., the center of AL98 was located near latitude 12.0 North and longitude 40.0 West, approximately 1,559 miles southeast of St. Kitts and Nevis.
Meteorologists indicate that environmental conditions are conducive for gradual development over the coming days, as the disturbance moves westward to west-northwestward at 15 to 20 mph.
The National Hurricane Center has forecasted an 80 percent chance of development for AL98, suggesting that tropical development could occur soon.
According to the Antigua and Barbuda Met Service, significant development could occur within the next week as the disturbance approaches the Lesser Antilles. It may produce sustained winds of around 25 mph with higher gusts.
The system is anticipated to be near the Leeward Islands within two to three days, at which point watches may be issued for some territories within the next 48 hours.
Residents are encouraged to finalize their hurricane preparedness plans and begin implementation.
