At 5:00 am AST (09:00UTC), the center of hurricane Jose was located near latitude 14.8 north, longitude 49.1 west or 815 miles east of the Lesser Antilles

Jose is moving toward the west-northwest near 18 mph (30 km/h), and this general motion is expected to continue during the next couple of days.

Maximum sustained winds have increased to near 90 mph (150 km/h) with higher gusts. Some strengthening is forecast during the next 48 hours.

Hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 15 miles (30 km) from the center and tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 80 miles (130 km).

The estimated minimum central pressure is 986mb (29.12 inches).

Based upon the latest position and forecast track, hurricane Jose could come close to the Leeward Islands and British Virgin Islands this weekend. As a result, watches may become necessary for the Leeward Islands soon.

All residents of the Leeward Islands are urged to continue to monitor the movement of Jose