Hurricane Matthew Now Category 3

As of the 11 AM EDT update from the National Hurricane Center, Matthew is now a category 3 hurricane. Hurricane Hunter aircraft recorded that maximum sustained winds are around 115 mph with higher gusts. Little to no strengthening is expected over the next few days.

A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect from the Colombian/Venezuelan border to Riohacha. Winds will begin to increase for these areas later today into tonight. Heavy rain is also likely with anywhere from 2-4″ possible. Higher amounts could fall along the coast.

As Matthew continues to churn westward and eventually more northward, a Hurricane Watch may be necessary for Jamaica. It is still too early to determine potential US impacts.