Isaac Will Pass Closer To USVI Than Previously Projected

Following a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) hurricane hunter aircraft’s investigation of Isaac today, the National Hurricane Center (N.H.C.) has moved the storm’s projected path closer to the USVI. Before the investigation, the storm was projected to pass 120 miles south of the territory. However, it is now expected to pass just 80 miles to the south. This is an important change because Isaac’s tropical storm conditions extend 175 miles out, according to N.H.C.

At 5:00 p.m., the center of Tropical Storm Isaac was located near latitude 15.4 North, longitude 56.6 West, N.H.C. said. Isaac is moving toward the west near 20 mph (31 km/h), and this general motion with a decrease in forward is expected to continue through the weekend. On the forecast track, Isaac is forecast to move across the central Lesser Antilles and into the eastern Caribbean Sea on Thursday, and then move across the eastern and central Caribbean Sea through Saturday.

Maximum sustained winds remain near 60 mph (95 km/h) with higher gusts. Some weakening is forecast during the next 48 hours.

Tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 175 miles (280 km) from the center.

The estimated minimum central pressure is 1003 mb (29.62 inches).

Hazards affecting land

RAINFALL: Isaac is expected to produce total rainfall accumulations of 2 to 4 inches with isolated amounts up to 8 inches across Martinique, Dominica, and Guadeloupe. Rainfall of 1 to 2 inches with isolated amounts to 4 inches are forecast across Puerto Rico and the southern United States Virgin Islands, with up to an inch anticipated across the remaining Windward and Leeward Islands. This rainfall may cause life-threatening flash flooding.

WIND: Tropical storm conditions are expected on Martinique, Dominica, and Guadeloupe early Thursday. Tropical storm conditions are possible within the tropical storm watch area on Thursday.

STORM SURGE: Some coastal flooding is possible in areas of onshore winds. Near the coast, the surge will be accompanied by large waves.

SURF: Swells generated by Isaac are affecting portions of the Lesser Antilles. These swells are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions. Please consult products from your local weather office.