In brief
Hurricane Priscilla has weakened to a Category 1 storm with maximum winds of 80 mph, moving along Mexico's coast. Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Jerry is intensifying in the Atlantic and could become a hurricane as it approaches the Leeward Islands, bringing heavy rain and flash flooding risks. A tropical storm watch is in effect for several islands in that region.
MIAMI (AP) — Hurricane Priscilla has weakened in the Pacific as it moves along Mexico’s west coast, while Tropical Storm Jerry in the Atlantic is expected to strengthen on a path towards the Leeward Islands.
Priscilla, which came close to becoming a major hurricane earlier, is now categorized as a Category 1 storm with maximum sustained winds around 80 mph (129 kph). Heavy rainfall and flash flooding remain possible for the southwestern U.S. as the storm progresses.
Currently moving northwest at 8 mph (13 kph), Priscilla was measured about 195 miles (314 kilometers) southwest of Baja California. Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Jerry is located about 835 miles (1,344 kilometers) east-southeast of the northern Leeward Islands, with winds of 50 mph (80 kph) as it travels west-northwest at 23 mph (37 kph).
Jerry is projected to strengthen into a hurricane by Thursday and is expected to reach the vicinity of the northern Leeward Islands late Thursday into Friday.
Rain totals of 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 centimeters) are predicted across the Leeward Islands, raising concerns for flash flooding. A tropical storm watch is in place for several islands including Antigua and Anguilla.
In the Pacific, a tropical storm watch is also active for Baja California Sur due to Hurricane Priscilla, which is forecasted to continue weakening. Priscilla's defining characteristic as a major hurricane involves winds reaching 111 mph (180 kph) or more.
In addition, Tropical Storm Octave, located about 720 miles (1,159 kilometers) southwest of Baja California, is losing strength and is not expected to threaten any land.
