(OS) – Dorian has strengthened into a Category 1 hurricane, as expected. As of 2 p.m., Hurricane Dorian was directly over St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands with 75 mph winds, according to the National Hurricane Center. The storm is expected to grow in size and could hit Category 3 status before reaching Florida’s east coast by early Monday. “The latest advisory from NHC is of concern for Central Florida,” Fox 35 meteorologist Jayme King said. “The forecast track on Dorian by this weekend brings some
startling developments. … All residents from the coast into the interior need to prepare should the latest forecast pan out.” The tropical storm watch was discontinued for the Dominican Republic, the NHC said Wednesday afternoon. President Trump declared an emergency Tuesday night and ordered federal assistance for local authorities. “On this track, Dorian should continue to move near or over the U.S. and the British Virgin Islands this afternoon and then move over the open Atlantic well east of the southeastern Bahamas,” the NHC said Wednesday afternoon. CONTINUE
