As Tropical Storm Jerry churns through the Atlantic, it continues to generate hazardous conditions across the Caribbean, particularly affecting the northern Leeward Islands, the Windward Islands, the Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. The United States’ National Hurricane Center (NHC), based in Miami, Florida, issued a stark warning on Friday, highlighting the life-threatening surf and rip current conditions caused by the storm’s powerful swells. While Jerry is pulling away from the northern Leeward Islands, its impacts are far from over, with the potential to cause significant disruptions across the region over the coming days.
According to the NHC, the swells generated by Tropical Storm Jerry are already affecting a wide swath of the Caribbean, including the Leeward Islands, Windward Islands, British and US Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. These swells are expected to intensify and spread, reaching the rest of the Greater Antilles over the next two nights. The agency emphasized that these conditions are likely to result in dangerous surf and rip currents, posing severe risks to coastal communities, beachgoers, and mariners. Rip currents, in particular, are a significant concern, as they can swiftly pull swimmers away from shore, creating life-threatening situations even for experienced swimmers. The NHC urged residents and visitors in affected areas to exercise extreme caution, avoid swimming in areas with strong currents, and heed local warnings and advisories.
In addition to the hazardous marine conditions, Tropical Storm Jerry is bringing heavy rainfall to parts of the Caribbean, raising concerns about flash flooding. The NHC warned that the rainfall could lead to significant impacts, particularly in urban areas and regions with steep terrain, where water can accumulate quickly and overwhelm drainage systems. The Leeward Islands, British and US Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico are already experiencing heavy downpours, with the potential for flash flooding in vulnerable areas. The combination of heavy rain and steep topography increases the risk of landslides, which could further endanger lives and property.
The NHC provided specific rainfall forecasts for the affected regions. Barbuda is expected to receive the heaviest rainfall, with accumulations of 10 to 15 centimeters (4 to 6 inches) anticipated through Friday. Other areas, including the rest of the Leeward Islands and the Virgin Islands, are forecast to see 5 to 10 centimeters (2 to 4 inches) of rain. Puerto Rico is also expected to experience significant rainfall, with 5 to 10 centimeters predicted across much of the island, and isolated areas potentially receiving up to 15 centimeters. These rainfall amounts, while not catastrophic, are substantial enough to cause localized flooding, particularly in areas with poor drainage or saturated soils.
As of 1500 GMT on Friday, the NHC reported that the center of Tropical Storm Jerry was located approximately 225 kilometers (140 miles) north of the northern Leeward Islands and about 1,350 kilometers (840 miles) south of Bermuda. The storm is moving northwest at a speed of 26 kilometers per hour (16.2 miles per hour), with maximum sustained winds of 85 kilometers per hour (53 miles per hour). Tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 295 kilometers (183 miles) east of the storm’s center, indicating its broad reach and potential to affect a wide area. The NHC noted that little change in the storm’s strength is expected over the next few days, suggesting that Jerry will likely maintain its current intensity as it continues its northwestward trajectory.
The broader implications of Tropical Storm Jerry extend beyond immediate weather hazards. The storm’s impacts could disrupt daily life, transportation, and local economies in the affected regions. In Puerto Rico, for example, where infrastructure remains vulnerable following previous storms, heavy rainfall could exacerbate existing challenges, such as power outages or road closures. Similarly, the Leeward and Virgin Islands, which rely heavily on tourism, may face disruptions to travel and outdoor activities, potentially affecting local businesses. Coastal areas, in particular, are at risk of erosion and damage to infrastructure due to the combination of high surf and heavy rain.
Local authorities across the Caribbean are taking proactive measures to mitigate the storm’s impacts. Emergency management agencies have been issuing advisories, urging residents to prepare for potential flooding and avoid coastal areas where rip currents are most dangerous. In Puerto Rico, officials are closely monitoring the situation, particularly in low-lying areas prone to flooding. The NHC has also advised mariners to exercise caution, as the storm’s swells could create hazardous conditions for vessels operating in the region.
The Caribbean’s vulnerability to tropical storms and hurricanes is well-documented, and Jerry serves as a reminder of the region’s ongoing challenges during the Atlantic hurricane season. While Jerry is not expected to intensify into a hurricane, its ability to generate dangerous conditions underscores the importance of preparedness and vigilance. Residents and visitors are being urged to stay informed through official channels, such as the NHC and local meteorological services, and to follow any evacuation or safety orders issued by authorities.
As Tropical Storm Jerry continues its northwestward path, its effects are expected to linger across the Caribbean for several days. The storm’s swells will likely continue to produce hazardous surf and rip currents, while heavy rainfall could lead to additional flooding in vulnerable areas. The NHC and regional authorities are closely monitoring the storm’s progress and will provide updates as conditions evolve. For now, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of those in the storm’s path and minimizing its potential impacts.
In the broader context of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, Tropical Storm Jerry is one of several systems that have kept the region on high alert. While the storm’s current trajectory suggests it will move away from land and into the open Atlantic, its indirect effects—such as swells and rainfall—will continue to pose challenges for the Caribbean. The NHC’s warnings serve as a critical reminder of the need for preparedness, not only for those directly in the storm’s path but also for communities that may experience secondary impacts.
For residents of the Leeward Islands, Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico, the next few days will require heightened awareness and caution. Simple steps, such as avoiding flood-prone areas, securing property, and staying updated on weather conditions, can make a significant difference in reducing risks. The NHC’s ongoing updates will be crucial in helping communities navigate the challenges posed by Tropical Storm Jerry.
In conclusion, Tropical Storm Jerry is a potent reminder of the Caribbean’s vulnerability to tropical weather systems. While the storm is pulling away from the northern Leeward Islands, its swells and heavy rainfall continue to create dangerous conditions across the region. The NHC’s warnings about life-threatening surf, rip currents, and potential flash flooding highlight the need for vigilance and preparedness. As Jerry moves northwest, its impacts will likely persist, affecting coastal and inland areas alike. By staying informed and taking proactive measures, residents and authorities can work together to mitigate the storm’s effects and ensure the safety of communities across the Caribbean.
