Tropical Storm “Nana” forms near Jamaica, forecast to make landfall in Belize

Tropical Storm "Nana" formed at 16:05 UTC on September 1, 2020, as the earliest 14^th named storm in the Atlantic Ocean on record. The previous record was set by Nate on September 6, 2005.

At the time it formed, Nana's center was about 195 km (120 miles) SW of Kingston, Jamaica. 

The system is forecast to be a hurricane as it approaches the coast of Belize. Strong winds, dangerous storm surge, and very heavy rainfall causing flash flooding are becoming more likely from Nana.

At 18:00 UTC on September 1, Nana's center was located 175 km (110 miles) S of Negril, Jamaica, and 1 045 km (650 miles) E of Belize City, Belize.

Its maximum, sustained winds were 85 km/h (50 mph) and minimum central pressure 1 002 hPa.

Nana is moving to the W at 30 km/h (18 mph).

The current NHC forecast track takes Nana near but north of the coast of Honduras on Wednesday, September 2, and likely be approaching the coast of Belize on Thursday, September 3 as a hurricane.

Tropical Storm "Nana" at 20:00 UTC on September 1, 2020. Credit: NOAA/GOES-16, RAMMB/CIRA

The system is located in conditions favorable for slow but steady strengthening over the next 24 hours. Peak forecast intensity is 120 km/h (75 mph) in about 48 hours, just prior to landfall.

A Tropical Storm Watch is currently in effect for northern Honduras, Roatan Island and the Bay Islands of Honduras, and Belize. A Tropical Storm Watch may be required for portions of Guatemala and the southern Yucatan Peninsula, along with a Hurricane Watch for Belize, later today.

Interests in Honduras, Guatemala, Belize, and Yucatan should closely monitor the progress of this storm.

Featured image: Tropical Storm "Nana" at 20:00 UTC on September 1, 2020. Credit: NOAA/GOES-16, RAMMB/CIRA