At 8:00 a.m. today, the centre of Hurricane Maria was near latitude 14.6 north, longitude 59.7 west, or  87 miles or 140 km east northeast of Saint Lucia. Maria is moving toward the west northwest near 12 mph or 19 km/h.

On the forecast track, the centre of Maria is expected to move across the northern windward islands later today. Maximum sustained winds are near 110 mph or 175 km/h with higher gusts. Additional rapid strengthening is forecast during the next 48 hours.

Maria expected to become a major hurricane before it moves through the leeward islands. Hurricane force winds extend outward up to 15 miles or 30 km from the centre and tropical storm force winds extend outward up to 105 miles or 165 km.

Outerbands of Maria are expected to produce heavy showers, gusty winds and thunderstorms over Saint Lucia today. Rough seas generated by Hurricane Maria will continue to affect Saint Lucia with waves and swells 10 to 14 feet or 3.0 to 4.3 metres for the next 24 to 36 hours. Small craft and local fishermen are strongly advised to remain in port and residents are also advised to stay away from the beaches.

Persons living in areas prone to flooding and landslides are advised to exercise vigilance.

Residents of Saint Lucia and the rest of the windward and leeward islands are asked to closely monitor the progress of this system.