During Friday, August 28, 2015, Erika will travel through the British and United States Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. Photo: www.accuweather.com

Erika is moving toward the west-northwest near 15 mph. This general motion is expected to continue for the next 48 hours.

Maximum sustained winds are near 45 mph with higher gusts. No significant change in strength is forecast during the next 48 hours.

On the forecast track, the centre of Erika will move near the Virgin Islands this evening. Tropical storm force winds now extend outward up to 140 miles. The minimum central pressure is 1006 mb.

A Tropical Storm Warning is still in effect for the [British] Virgin Islands. A Tropical Storm Warning means that tropical storm conditions are expected within the British Virgin Islands today.

Heavy showers are likely to affect the Virgin Islands and forecasters have increased their projected accumulation.

The showers could result in localised flooding.

The marine warning issued by Antigua/Barbuda Meteorological Service for mariners, small craft operators and sea bathers remains in effect. Sea conditions have begun to deteriorate and could peak near 12 feet during the passage of Erika.

Residents are encouraged to be vigilant and monitor the updates issued by the National Emergency Operations Centre as forecasters continue to make adjustments in the projected track and intensity of Tropical Storm Erika.

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