Irma is now a dangerous category 5 Hurricane as it begins to close in on Leeward Caribbean Islands

A deterioration in weather conditions can be expected today as a second feeder band from Irma moves across the island. By this afternoon, as Major Hurricane Irma approaches the area, an increase in cloudiness with showers, moderate to heavy at times, gusty winds and isolated thunderstorms can be expected and continuing into tomorrow. 
As a result, a tropical storm warning is in effect for Dominica.
 
At 5am, Hurricane Irma was located near latitude 16.6 degrees north and longitude 57.0 degrees west or about 320 miles east of the Leeward Islands and is now moving west at 14mph. Maximum sustained winds are now about 175 mph, making Irma a dangerous category 5 hurricane. The Centre of Hurricane Irma is projected to move over or just northeast of the northern Leeward Islands by this afternoon into Wednesday morning.
 
A deterioration in conditions to include moderate to heavy showers, thunderstorms, gusty winds, possible to tropical storm force, and dangerous seas are expected, especially today and Wednesday. All users of the sea are advised to take all necessary precautions to protect life and property.
 
Residents are advised to monitor the progress of this system and to make all the necessary preparations as Irma continues to move towards the Lesser Antilles as a major Hurricane. 
 
Rough seas are expected during the next 24 hours with waves peaking near 15.0 feet in northerly swells. As a result, a small craft warning and a high surf advisory is in effect.