Marine warning issued as Paula heads for Cuba
(CNS): Updated Wednesday 10am — Although Hurricane Paula is almost 320 miles to the west –northwest of Grand Cayman and poses no immediate threat to the Cayman Islands, heavy swells are expected along the west and south coasts of the Cayman Islands today. Local forecasts call for heavy showers today with thunder mostly over Grand Cayman. Temperatures will rise to the mid 80’s and winds will be east to southeast 10 to 15 knots. Seas will be moderate to rough with wave heights of 5 to 7 feet, especially along the west and south coasts this afternoon and a small craft warning remains in effect. Similar weather is expected tomorrow and through Friday morning as Hurricane Paula moves over Western Cuba and weakens.
A marine warning is also in place locally as swells pose a threat to boating and beach activities small crafts are advised to take all necessary action to ensure safety. Residents are also being warned to avoid swimming on the south and west coasts. Currents may be strong particularly around channels.
Boaters should exercise caution near the coast in these areas due to the possibility of a significant ‘ground swell.’ Exercise caution and stay well back when observing large waves. Successive waves can vary substantially in size and magnitude.
Hurricane Paula is currently moving toward the north near 5mph and the NHC said this general motion is expected to continue this morning.
Maximum sustained winds remain near 100 mph with higher gusts making Paula is a category two hurricane on the saffir-simpson hurricane wind scale. Paula has grown little in size since its formation with Hurricane-force winds extending outward only up to 15 miles fromthe centre, tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 60 miles.
Category: Science and Nature
