With the development of AL95 into Tropical Storm Jerry, which local meteorologists continue to monitor, the National Office of Disaster Services (NODS) urges residents to ensure their disaster preparedness plans are in place.

Residents should have their emergency kit stocked with canned and other non-perishable foods, water, first aid kit, battery-operated radio, flashlight, medication, personal hygiene items, clothing, blanket and other needed supplies.

Consideration must also be given to having personal items for vulnerable family members like children, the elderly and people with special needs.

Residents are further advised to ensure their home is safeguarded against any wind or rain, to know the location of their nearest shelter and to be reminded that when moving to a shelter, individuals must have their own food, water and other necessities.

The latest from the Met Office is that there is a 47% chance of storm-force winds reaching Barbuda and a 10% chance of hurricane-force winds.

For Antigua, there is a 22% chance of storm-force winds and a 1% chance of hurricane-force winds.

The Met office notes that there will be changes as it continues to monitor the situation, and residents will be kept abreast of the updates.