Miami, Florida – Mariners navigating the Tropical North Atlantic should brace for hurricane-force winds and building seas Friday, as the National Weather Service issues a Hurricane Warning for waters between 15°N to 19°N and 55°W to 60°W.
According to the National Hurricane Center in Miami, tropical storm conditions are already developing with southwest to west winds reaching 55 to 65 knots by Friday afternoon. Seas will climb from 9 to 14 feet, peaking at 16 feet in the northeastern portion of the warning area. Widespread squalls and thunderstorms are expected to reduce visibility and make conditions hazardous.
By Friday night, storm conditions are expected to intensify, with sustained winds shifting south to southwest and remaining in the 55 to 65 kt range before easing late. Mariners should expect dangerous seas and strong squalls continuing into Saturday, with winds gradually decreasing to 25 to 30 kt. Offshore travel should be avoided.
The warning extends through early next week, with seas remaining elevated and persistent easterly winds from Sunday into Tuesday. Swell-related impacts could also reach the eastern Caribbean islands.
Warnings remain in effect through at least Tuesday night. Mariners should monitor official updates and avoid travel in the affected region.
