Twin States Weather Blog

Dennis Update

Dennis continues to strengthen as the center churns just to the north of Jamaica. It is on the verge of becoming a category 3 hurricane. As of 2pm, this is the latest data on powerful Hurricane Dennis:

Location: 18.6 N 76.1 W
Winds: 110 mph
Pressure: 962 mb
Movement: NW 15

This system will likely become a category three hurricane (major hurricane) within the next 24 hours. This intensity means winds will be 111-130 mph (96-113 kt or 178-209 km/hr). Other information about major hurricanes include:

Storm surge generally 9-12 ft above normal.
Structural damage to small residences.
Damage to shrubbery and large trees blown down.
Mobile homes and poorly constructed signs are destroyed.
Low-lying escape routes are cut by rising water 3-5 hours before arrival of the center.

Dennis will most likely pass over Cuba which will hinder any strengthening. Dennis should move into the Gulf of Mexico by Friday night. Water temperaturs in Gulf are then certainly favorable for intensification. Some bouys in the Gulf report temperatures in the upper 80s.

Dennis is still on course for somewhere along the Gulf coast. The latest forecast track takes Dennis anywhere from as far west as New Orleans to possibly anywhere along Florida's Gulf Coast. The most likely track puts the system near Mobile and Pensacola Sunday afternoon.

Of course, any specifics on the track are much to early to tell. Stay tuned to WTOK newscasts and also check out the Hurricane Dennis Info Desk for all the latest information.

posted by Anonymous @ 2:51 PM