There has been little change to Tropical Storm Bret since the 8 a.m. advisory and a tropical storm watch remains in effect for Barbados.
A tropical-storm watch is issued when sustained winds of 34 to 63 knots (39 to 73 miles per hour; 63 to 118km/h) associated with a tropical storm or hurricane could affect Barbados within 48 hours.
At 11 a.m., the centre of Tropical Storm Bret was located near 13.0N 52.5W or approximately 470 miles (760km) east of Barbados.
The maximum sustained winds are near 60mph (95kmh) with the current movement westward at 14mph (22kmh) and the minimum central pressure is 1001mb.
The centre of Bret and its strongest winds are expected to pass approximately 45 miles (72km) to the north of Barbados late Thursday evening. Given the close proximity to the north of the island, a tropical storm watch remains in effect.
Marine conditions are forecast to deteriorate from Wednesday night into early Friday morning. Moderate to rough swells of 2.5m to 3.5m (8ft to 11ft) in open water around Barbados is expected to generate choppy conditions which will particularly affect the island’s eastern and northern coastlines.
As a result, a small craft and high surf advisory are in effect. Mariners are advised not to venture too far from port and secure their vessels leading up to Wednesday night.
Outer bands of Tropical Storm Bret will begin to affect the island from Thursday afternoon with showers and gusty winds. Rainfall accumulations of one to three inches (25 to 75mm) are likely across the island. This may result in flash flooding in low-lying districts. People in these areas should begin to make the relevant preparations to protect property and life. (PR/SAT)