LOCATION: 16.7 degrees North, 64.7 degrees West

DISTANCE: ABOUT 109 MILES SOUTH EAST OF THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 

MOVEMENT: WEST 12 MPH 

MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS: 45 MPH

MINIMUM CENTRAL PRESSURE: 1008 MB



At 8:00 p.m., the centre of Tropical Storm Erika was estimated near latitude 16.7 degrees north, longitude 64.7 degrees west or about 109 miles east of the BVI. Erika is moving toward the west near 12 mph. Erika should resume a west-northwest track with a slight increase in forward speed later tonight. This general motion is expected to continue for the next 48 hours. 

Maximum sustained winds are near 45 mph with higher gusts. No significant change in strength is forecast during the next 48 hours.

On the forecast track, the centre of Erika will move near the Virgin Islands tonight. Tropical storm force winds now extend outward up to 140 miles. The minimum central pressure is 1008 mb. 

A Tropical Storm Warning is still in effect for the British Virgin Islands as the system is currently affecting the Territory.

The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services forecast possible rainfall of 1-4 inches over the next 24 hours. The showers could result in localised flooding. Flash flooding is possible.

The marine warning remains in effect for mariners, small craft operators. Mariners should remain in safe anchorage, as seas are deteriorating and are expected to peak near 12 feet during the passage of Erika. 

Residents are encouraged to be vigilant and monitor the updates issued by the National Emergency Operations Centre as forecasters continue to make adjustments in the projected track and intensity of Tropical Storm Erika.

Visit the DDM website at www.bviddm.com and subscribe for updates, visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/bvi.ddm or follow us on Twitter atwww.twitter.com/BVIDDM. 

Disclaimer: The Department of Disaster Management (DDM) is not an official Meteorological Office. The Information disseminated by the Department is gathered from a number of professional sources used or contracted by the DDM to provide such information. This information is to be used as a guide by anyone who has interest in local weather conditions. By no means can the DDM or the BVI Government be held accountable by anyone who uses this information appropriately for legal evidence or in justification of any decision which may result in the loss of finances, property or life.