TS Isaac less organised; Some govts call off Storm Warnings, Watches

Tropical Storm Isaac, which passed between the Caribbean island nations of Dominica and Martinique late Wednesday and early Thursday, is now moving nearly due west across the eastern Caribbean Sea.

As of 10 a.m. CDT Tropical Storm Isaac was located about 420 miles east of Martinique and was moving west at 17 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center. A small-craft Warning means in this case that surface winds greater than or equal to 25 knots and seas equal to or greater than 3m (10ft) are already affecting or expected to affect the marine area.

A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for Montserrat, St Kitts, Nevis, Saba and St Eustatius.

All watches and warnings were discontinued yesterday.

Isaac a little weaker and continues to lose organisation as it moves westward.

The public is encouraged to continue monitoring the Met Office via its social media accounts and website at www.metoffice.gov.tt for updates.

Jeff Byard, associate administrator for response and recovery at the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), had hours earlier warned that "24 to 36 hours remain for significant threats" from heavy rain, storm surge and flooding. Since we're now at the height of hurricane season it's important to stay focused and have plans ready, should any tropical activity threaten.

And the storm is heading straight for the United Kingdom, with landfall expected early next week. Isaac is forecast to gradually weaken over the next few days, and could degenerate into a tropical wave during that time.

Swells generated by Florence could cause risky rip currents and coastal flooding Saturday in areas including coastal DE and New Jersey, the National Weather Service said.

Swells generated by Isaac are affecting portions of the Lesser Antilles. Across Puerto Rico and the southern U.S. Virgin Islands 1 to 2 inches of rainfall, with isolated amounts up to 4 inches, is anticipated.

American Airlines is waiving rebooking fees for 14 Caribbean islands including Antigua, Puerto Rico and St. Lucia for flights scheduled September 12 to 14.

Some coastal flooding is possible in areas of onshore winds.