U.S.Tropical Storm Watches in Force – Florida, Caribbean

A tropical storm (Claudette) is currently developing in the Gulf of Mexico.  The Alabama gulf coast and the Florida panhandle are under a tropical storm alert for the next 24 hours. 

Another tropical storm (Ana) is affecting the eastern Atlantic causing a tropical storm watch for the U.S. Virgin Islands (Leeward Islands) and Puerto Rico for the next day or two, with the possibility that Haiti and Cuba could be affected.

Tropical storm Bill is expected to become hurricane force within the next 24 hours and has the potential to affect the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico although there is no immediate warning at the time of writing.

It might be good news for surfers, but not so for travellers in the area or due to travel to the affected areas.  Hurricane season in the Atlantic runs from June to November and it has been quiet until now, but storms often tend to become more problematic later in the season.

News and weather reports should be monitored to track the progress of these storms. Those with immediate plans to travel to southern U.S. states should also keep an eye on the Foreign and Commonwealth Office updates in case any advisories against travel are put into force.

(Important:  If you haven’t already done so, don’t forget to register at least 72 hours prior to travel to the U.S. under the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA).