Tropical Storm Dolly formed over the Atlantic east of the Lesser Antilles on Saturday afternoon, bringing strong winds and heavy rain to several islands in the region. AccuWeather’s hurricane forecasters expect the northern Lesser Antilles to receive between 2 and 4 inches of rain on average, with isolated spots seeing as much as 12 inches, according to the AccuWeather Local StormMax™ forecast.
Wind and Rain Impacts Across the Islands
Wind gusts are projected to range from 40 to 50 mph, with maximum local gusts reaching up to 60 mph on Saint Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, Sint Maarten, Guadeloupe, and Montserrat as Dolly makes its initial approach. The storm has been rated “Less Than 1” on AccuWeather’s RealImpact™ Scale for Hurricanes, indicating a relatively low overall threat at this stage.
Forecasters anticipate that Dolly will weaken and lose organization while passing over the islands because of strong wind shear, dry air, and interaction with land. Those factors should limit any rapid intensification in the short term.
Potential Re‑Development and U.S. Threat
Despite the expected weakening, meteorologists note that the system could regain strength after moving past Hispaniola. The remaining wave is expected to push northwest toward the northern Caribbean and the Bahamas, where conditions may become more favorable for re‑organization. If Dolly remains intact, it could track toward the southeastern United States later next week.
“There is certainly a chance for this wave to bring rain to the southeastern U.S. one way or another. The question is in what form?” said Alex DaSilva, AccuWeather Lead Hurricane Expert. “If the storm can stay together long enough, conditions more conducive to organization around the Bahamas could allow Dolly to reorganize, but if the storm just gets ripped apart by the shear and land interactions it may never redevelop. In that situation any potential impact on the U.S. mainland will be minimal.”
What Residents Should Expect
For residents of the affected Caribbean islands, the immediate concern is heavy rainfall that could lead to localized flooding, especially in low‑lying areas. Wind gusts of up to 60 mph may cause minor structural damage, downed trees, and power outages. Local authorities are urging citizens to secure loose objects, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay tuned to official weather updates.
In the United States, forecasters are monitoring the system closely as it moves northward. While the exact track remains uncertain, the National Hurricane Center advises coastal communities in the southeastern states to prepare for the possibility of rain, gusty winds, and coastal surge should Dolly re‑intensify.
Looking Ahead
As the storm progresses, AccuWeather will continue to update its forecasts, including potential changes to the storm’s intensity and path. Residents in both the Caribbean and the southeastern United States are encouraged to follow local emergency management guidance and keep emergency kits ready.
For the latest information, visit AccuWeather’s website or follow local weather officials on social media.
Original reporting: Tampa Free Press — read the source article.
