WEATHER RELEASE
TROPICAL STORM INGRID EAST OF THE LESSER ANTILLES
Friday 14th Sept. 2007- At 9:00AM Tropical Storm Ingrid is centered near 14.9N 49.1W, or about 790 miles east of the Lesser Antilles. Maximum sustained winds are estimated to be 40-45 mph. Movement is to the west-northwest near 5-7 mph.
There is little change in the forecast track over the next 72 hours as Ingrid is steered on a west-northwest course underneath a large area of high pressure to the north. Beyond 72 hours, it does appear that the high pressure area will weaken a little faster allowing for a more pronounced northwesterly turn. This has been reflected on our latest track. Even though we cannot rule out a track into the extreme northeast Caribbean, Forecasters doubt this will occur considering the overwhelming amount of computer model guidance and steering current data which continues to support a track north of the Caribbean Islands. In the unlikely event a southward turn does occur, Ingrid could pose a threat to the northeast Caribbean as early as Tuesday. In the longer range, it does appear that Ingrid will be drawn into a large upper level trough and be driven out to sea later next week.
As Tropical Storm Ingrid has not passed the area, residents are asked to monitor the Tropical Storm as it progresses forward. The Department of Disaster Management will also continue to monitor this Storm and update the public accordingly.