Caribbean residents are preparing for a turbulent weekend as Tropical Storm Dolly forms in the central tropical Atlantic.
Tropical Storm Dolly races west across the central Atlantic, with heavy rain possible in parts of the Caribbean this weekend as it weakens.
According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), the storm developed on Thursday morning and is expected to bring heavy rainfall to parts of the Caribbean this weekend.
As of 11 a.m. on Thursday, Dolly was moving west at 24 mph (39 km/h) with maximum sustained winds of 40 mph (65 km/h) and higher gusts. The storm’s center was located near latitude 13.6 north and longitude 38.7 west.
Forecasters expect it to continue its westward path over the next couple of days, potentially approaching the Leeward Islands this weekend.
Residents in the Leeward Islands are advised to closely monitor the storm’s progress. While little change in strength is anticipated over the next 48 hours, Dolly is expected to weaken into a tropical wave before reaching the islands.
Tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 60 miles (95 km) from the center, with an estimated minimum central pressure of 1007 millibars.
Although Dolly is likely to lose its status as a tropical cyclone when it nears the Leeward Islands, heavy rainfall could begin to affect the area late Saturday into Sunday. The Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and Hispaniola may also experience rainfall on Sunday and Monday, with the NHC warning of possible flash flooding, especially in higher terrain.
Interestingly, Dolly formed just two days after the passing of country music icon Dolly Parton. However, the storm’s name was already included on the predetermined list for the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season. Stay safe and informed as the weekend approaches.
(Source: NHC)