Weakened Tropical Storm Dorian now affecting Windward Islands

Tropical Storm Dorian is affecting the Windward Islands with heavy rain and gusty winds on Tuesday morning.

The storm could go on to affect Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, The Bahamas and possibly Florida over the next several days.

The center of weakened Tropical Storm Dorian passed across the southern tip of  Barbados Monday night.

Aircraft investigating the system found that the storm weakened slightly, with maximum sustained winds now near 45 miles per hour, down from around 60 Monday evening.

Barbados experienced sustained wind-speeds of  38 miles per hour.

Forecasters say the dry air seems to be weakening the system.

Hurricane Hunters investigated the system Monday afternoon and found it was not as organized as shown in the satellite.

It is not known whether Barbados sustained any damage by the storm.

A tropical storm warning is in effect for Martinique, St. Lucia, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, and Puerto Rico.

That means tropical storm conditions are expected within the next 36 hours.

Hurricane watches have now been issued for Puerto Rico and eastern portions of the Dominican Republic, meaning hurricane conditions are possible within the next 48 hours.