Dean developing hurricane traits

Tropical Storm Dean began developing the tell-tale signs of a hurricane-under-construction Wednesday as it progressed toward the Caribbean islands.

At the same time, a tropical depression in the Gulf of Mexico – apparently bound for Texas – was expected to grow into a tropical storm before reaching land Thursday.

In the Atlantic, Dean started to form the outer, swirling bands that often mark vigorous hurricanes.

It was expected to reach the outer Caribbean islands by Friday evening and continue heading west or west-northwest, possibly endangering the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Jamaica and Cuba early next week.

The official forecast had Dean’s winds building to 74 mph by Thursday night, making it the season’s first hurricane — and it might not stop there. It is expected to become a major hurricane, with winds of 115 mph by Monday.

McClatchy Newspapers