A tropical storm warning remains in effect, but the hurricane watch was discontinued as of 2 p.m. today.
A tropical storm warning means that tropical storm conditions are expected within the warning area within 36 hours.
Barbados Meteorological Services said that at 2 p.m. today, Tropical Storm Gonzalo was located near 9.9N 54.8W or about 390 miles (625 km) east south east of Barbados.
Maximum sustained winds have decreased to 45 mph (75 km/h). Storm-force winds extend outward only to 35 miles (55 km) from the centre. The system is moving westward or 275 degrees at 18 mph or 30 km/h.
Significant convection associated with Gonzalo remains disorganised since the last advisory. Further re-strengthening of this feature is not expected as Gonzalo moves towards the southern Windwards.
On its current forecast track, the centre of Tropical Storm Gonzalo is expected to pass approximately 125 miles (200 km) to the South South-West of Barbados on Saturday.
Initial reports from an Air Force Reserve reconnaissance aircraft currently investigating Gonzalo have revealed that it is slightly further south and weaker than initially forecast.
Sustained storm force winds are likely to spread across Barbados from Saturday morning with sustained wind speeds of 30 to 40 mph (50 to 65 km/h) and higher gusts likely.
Rough sea swells are likely and a small craft warning and a high surf warning have been issued. Rainfall accumulation of 1-3 inches (25 to 75 mm) is likely.
The next complete advisory will be issued at 5 p.m. (PR)
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