Hurricane Matthew threatens south Caribbean Isles

The National Hurricane Center upgraded Matthew to a hurricane this afternoon.

The storm is moving through the eastern Caribbean Sea.

A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for Bonaire, Curacao, and Aruba.  It means that tropical storm conditions arepossible within the watch area.

Rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches, with isolated higher amounts, are expected there.

Forecasters also say people along the coasts of Venezuela and Colombia should monitor the progress of Hurricane Matthew.

Swells generated by Matthew are expected to affect portionsof the coasts of Puerto Rico, Hispaniola, Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao,Venezuela, and Colombia during the next few days.  These swells arelikely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions.

Longterm forecast tracks take Matthew north by the end of the week. It could be a threat to Cuba and then move east of Florida early next week.