Tropical Storm Jerry nears hurricane strength

Santo Domingo.- Tropical Storm Jerry has intensified, reaching sustained winds of 100 km/h (62 mph) as it moves east of the Lesser Antilles, bringing rain, gusty winds, and rough seas to the region.

According to meteorologist Jean Suriel, the storm is moving west-northwest at around 31 km/h and is close to reaching hurricane strength. “Jerry is just 19 kilometers away from becoming a hurricane and could reach Category 1 status within the next 24 hours,” Suriel explained.

He added that the system is expected to pass northeast of Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic over the weekend, approximately 640 kilometers east of Punta Cana. Although Jerry poses no direct threat to the country, Suriel noted that it will bring cloudy skies, light wind gusts, and warm air from Friday through the weekend.