Tropical Storm Bret is strengthening in the Atlantic Ocean and could become a hurricane in the next couple of days, the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC) said on Monday.
The storm, which is currently about 1,210 miles (1,945 kilometers) east of the southern Windward Islands, is packing maximum sustained winds of 40 miles per hour (65 kilometers per hour). It is moving west at 15 miles per hour (24 kilometers per hour).
The NHC said that Bret is expected to continue to strengthen and could become a hurricane by Wednesday. The storm is then forecast to move west-northwestward across the central Atlantic Ocean and approach the Lesser Antilles by late this week.
The NHC has issued a tropical storm warning for Barbados, St. Lucia, Martinique, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Guadeloupe, Dominica, and Montserrat. A tropical storm watch is in effect for Antigua and Barbuda, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Anguilla.
The storm could bring heavy rains, strong winds, and storm surge to the Lesser Antilles. Residents in the region are advised to monitor the storm and take appropriate precautions.
Here are some things you can do to prepare for a hurricane:
- Make an emergency plan and gather supplies, such as food, water, and batteries.
- Stay informed about the storm’s progress and follow the instructions of local officials.
- If you live in a coastal area, consider evacuating if you are advised to do so.
- Secure loose objects around your home, such as lawn furniture and garbage cans.
- Bring your pets inside and secure them in a safe place.
- Stay away from floodwaters, as they can be dangerous.
Tropical Storm Bret is the second named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season, which began on June 1. The season is expected to be an active one, with as many as 17 named storms and up to 10 hurricanes.
