Tropical stormcauses squally weather in Cayman

(CNS): As the 17th storm of the Atlantic Hurricane season rumbles slowly north-northwestward, Cayman can expect to continue experiencing wet and blustery weather. Although Tropical Storm Rina is not forecast to head directly to the Cayman Islands, the latest satellite images indicate that severe weather associated with this strengthening storm will continue to affect the local area with moderate to heavy thunderstorms, squally conditions and rough seas, local experts say. Hazard management has also warned of increased flooding of low lying areas and residents of such areas are advised to take the necessary precautions.

Rina formed at around 10pm on Sunday night and was around 195 miles SSW of Grand Cayman at 7am Monday morning with winds of over 40mph and higher gusts. Currently travelling at 6 mph on a north-north west path a gradual turn toward the west is expected over the next 48 hours and the centre of Rina is expected to pass north of the northeastern coast of Honduras during the next couple of days.

Tropical storm force winds extend outward up to 90 miles mainly to the north and west of the centre and the National Hurricane Centre in Miami said the storm was expected to strengthen over the next 48 hours.

Local weather services are advising Cayman residents to pay close attention to the system and weather bulletins as the storm may produce heavy rain in the Cayman area which is also being impacted by the remnants of a stationary front to the northwest. Showers and overcast skies will persist throughout Monday with localized flooding and weather experts are forecasting a gradual decrease in cloudiness and shower activity from Tuesday afternoon.

For more information visit www.weather.ky or www..nhc.noaa.gov