Epsilon Slightly Stronger; Tropical Storm Watch Issued for Bermuda

SUMMARY OF 1100 AM AST…1500 UTC…INFORMATION
LOCATION…26.5N 55.0W
ABOUT 710 MI…1145 KM ESE OF BERMUDA
MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS…50 MPH…85 KM/H
PRESENT MOVEMENT…NNW OR 330 DEGREES AT 8 MPH…13 KM/H
MINIMUM CENTRAL PRESSURE…996 MB…29.42 INCHES

WATCHES AND WARNINGS
A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for…
* Bermuda

DISCUSSION AND OUTLOOK
At 1100 AM AST (1500 UTC), the center of Tropical Storm Epsilon was located near latitude 26.5 North, longitude 55.0 West. Epsilon is moving toward the north-northwest near 8 mph (13 km/h). A northwestward motion with a slightly faster forward speed is forecast over the next couple of days. On the forecast track, Epsilon is forecast to move closer to Bermuda on Thursday and make its closest approach to the island on Friday.

Maximum sustained winds are near 50 mph (85 km/h) with higher gusts. Gradual strengthening is expected during the next couple of days, and Epsilon is forecast to be at or near hurricane strength by Thursday.

Tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 300 miles (480 km), primarily to the north of the center.

The estimated minimum central pressure is 996 MB (29.42 inches).

HAZARDS AFFECTING LAND
WIND: Tropical storm conditions are possible within the watch area by Thursday.

SURF: Large swells generated by Epsilon are expected to affect Bermuda for the next several days. These swells are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions.

Category: ALL POSTS, Severe Weather, Tropical