(Jamaica Gleaner) While Tropical Storm Isaac inundates the gulf states for a third day, Tropical Storm Kirk gained strength over the waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
The Meteorological Service of Jamaica said the centre of Tropical Storm Kirk was located near Latitude 26.5 degrees north and Longitude 49.0 degrees west. This is about 1715 kilometres northeast of the northern Leeward Islands.
It said Kirk is moving towards the northwest near at 17 km/h.
The Met Office said a turn to the north-northwest and north is expected through tomorrow, followed by an acceleration to north-northeast tomorrow night.
Maximum sustained winds have increased to near 100 km/h, with higher gusts.
Additional strengthening is forecast during the next 48 hours and Kirk could become a hurricane today or tonight.
The Met Office will continue to monitor the progress of this system.