The Potential Tropical Cyclone: Friday, Oct 18 update from the National Hurricane Center on latest developments

Article first published: Friday, Oct. 18, 2024, 5 p.m. ET

Article last updated: Friday, Oct. 18, 2024, 11 p.m. ET

On Friday at 11 pm, the National Hurricane Center issued an advisory stating that the potential tropical cyclone is 140 miles east of Belize City, with maximum sustained wind of 35 mph. It’s moving at 8 mph to the west. The potential tropical cyclone is expected to change into a tropical storm on Saturday.

SUMMARY OF WATCHES AND WARNINGS IN EFFECT:

A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for:

- Belize City, Belize to Tulum, Mexico

A Tropical Storm Watch means that tropical storm conditions are possible within the watch area, in this case within 12-24 hours.

Interests elsewhere in Belize and the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico should monitor the progress of this system.

HAZARDS AFFECTING LAND:

RAINFALL: Widespread 4-8 inch rainfall amounts are expected across northern Belize, northern Guatemala, and the southern states of Mexico from Quintana Roo westward to Veracruz. Isolated areas of amounts exceeding 12 inches are also possible through late Tuesday.

For a complete depiction of forecast rainfall associated with Potential Tropical Cyclone Fifteen, please see the National Weather Service Storm Total Rainfall Graphic, available at hurricanes.gov/graphics_at5.shtml? Rainqpf

WIND: Tropical storm conditions are possible within the watch area on Saturday.

STORM SURGE: Minor coastal flooding is possible in areas of onshore flow near and to the north of where the center moves inland.

Source: National Hurricane Center

This story was originally published October 18, 2024 at 3:49 PM.