What was Tropical Storm Matthew just a little over a day ago is now a strong Category 4 Hurricane Matthew with maximum sustained winds at 150 mph and central pressure at 945 mb. This is one of the most impressive systems in the Caribbean Sea in several years now, and the strongest since Hurricane Omar in 2008.
Here are some of the latest forecasts and graphics from the National Hurricane Center (NHC):
Current Atlantic Synopsis – Courtesy NHC
Hurricane Matthew position and 5-day forecast cone – Courtesy NHC
As you can see above, Hurricane watches have been posted for Jamaica where a possible landfall may occur on the eastern portions of the island Monday afternoon. From their its forecast to continue northward across Cuba and into the Bahamas.
Satellite imagery is looking impressive:
GOES-E infrared imagery – Courtesy of NASA MSFC Earth Science Office
Its worth taking note that Florida will be at risk as well as any jog westward in trajectory will cause worsening weather conditions for areas along the east coast.
Below is a graphic depicting wind speed probabilities of as least 74 mph.
Hurricane-force wind speed probabilities over the next 120 hours – Courtesy NHC
Hurricane Matthew will continue to be monitored by the NHC in the coming days and will be the talk of the meteorological community as well.
Meanwhile, we continue to deal with the upper-level low (ULL) over the Ohio Valley , but its expected to start drift NE out of our area in the next couple of days. Warmer temperatures and lower precipitation chances are more likely as a result.
Also, stay tuned to the High Plains on Tuesday as severe weather is expected there. A negatively tilted trough is approaching from the Pacific Northwest and is going to set-up an atmosphere capable of severe convective weather as a result.
Nonetheless, stay tuned as interesting weather in the mid-latitudes cranks up!