MIAMI – Forecasters continue to say a tropical wave south of Jamaica will reach tropical storm status on Aug. 2 as it sweeps toward the Yucatan.

The “vigorous tropical wave” passing just south of Jamaica is moving rapidly westward at about 20 mph toward the northwestern Caribbean Sea. Environmental conditions are favorable for additional development, forecasters say.

An Air Force plane was en route to investigate the wave and determine if a closed circulation has formed. Regardless of tropical cyclone formation, the wave is already producing winds of 40 to 45 mph, and these conditions along with heavy rains will likely continue over portions of Jamaica this morning, and will spread over the Cayman Islands later today.

Interests in the western Caribbean Sea, primarily the north coast of Honduras, Belize, and the Yucatan Peninsula should monitor products issued by their local meteorological services for possible watches and warnings. For additional information, see High Seas Forecasts issued by the National Weather Service.

Formation chance through 48 hours is high at 80 percent and formation chance through five days is also high at 90 percent.