MAJOR Hurricane Omar

Omar has rapidly intensified this evening, and now as of 11pm, is a category three hurricane with winds of 115 mph, and a pressure of 967 millibars. More strengthening is possible overnight as well. So all in all, the next 9 to 12 hours will be the worst conditions for the US and British Virgin Islands. However, the best thing about Omar is that the wind field is very small. Hurricane force winds extend only 35 miles from the eye, so not a wide area will be affected. However, the eye is very close to St. Croix in the Virgin Islands, and will pass there over the next couple hours. Also, the northern Leeward Islands, such as St. Martin and St. Maarten will see the worst affects Thursday morning. By midday Thursday, the storm will be moving out into open waters. Recent wind gusts to 59mph was reported in St. Croix.  For the latest on the affects of Hurricane Omar in the Caribbean, click the Hurricane Omar link in my blogroll.

Strengthening Omar Targets Caribbean

Hurricane Omar is now a 90 mph category one hurricane, and has the potential to grow into a category two. Hurricane and tropical storm watches and warnings are in affect for the various northeastern Caribbean islands. Click the Hurricane Omar link in the blogroll for these. Omar is expected to bring dangerous conditions to Puerto Rico, the US and British Virgin Islands, as well as the northern Leeward Islands. Those in the warned areas should take precautions to protect their property. Winds and very heavy rain are expected with Omar, so visitors and residents should take caution.