A tropical storm watch remains in effect for Barbados.
In its 5 PM update the Met Service says the center of Tropical Storm Bret was located 375 miles east of Barbados.
Tropical storm Bret has strengthened slightly with maximum sustained winds now near 65 MPH) with the current movement westward at 15MPH
The center of Bret and its strongest winds are expected to pass approximately 58 miles to the north of Barbados late Thursday evening.
Gusty to storm force winds are likely. Marine conditions are forecast to deteriorate from tonight into early Friday morning.
Moderate to rough swells of 2.5m to 3.5m (8 ft to 11ft) in open water around Barbados is expected to generate choppy conditions which will particularly affect the islands’ eastern and northern coastlines.
As a result, a small craft and high surf advisory are in effect. The Met service has advised mariners not to venture too far from port and secure their vessels immediately. Outer bands of Tropical Storm Bret will begin to affect the island from Thursday afternoon with showers and gusty winds. Rainfall accumulations of 1 to 3 inches are likely across the island.
