The Hurricane Watch Net (HWN) will activate at 8:30 AM (EDT) October 27 for Hurricane Rina, currently a Category 1 storm. The HWN will be active on 14.325 MHz to report observed conditions to WX4NHC, the Amateur Radio station at the National Hurricane Center (NHC). Depending on conditions, the HWN may also elect to activate on 7.268 MHz.

As of 1:30 PM (EDT) October 26, the NHC reported that the hurricane is approximately 180 miles south-southeast of Cozumel, Mexico. Rina is moving toward the west-northwest near 6 miles per hour and is expected to gradually turn to the northwest with a slight increase in forward speed Wednesday afternoon, followed by a turn toward the north on Thursday. The storm’s center will be moving near or over the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula on Thursday. Rina’s maximum sustained winds have decreased to near 85 miles per hour, with higher gusts. The NHC said that additional weakening is forecast during the next 48 hours; however, Rina is expected to be at hurricane strength when the center passes near or over the Yucatan Peninsula.

Amateur stations in the affected area should be aware of the storm, and be prepared to operate from a place of safety. The HWN will be looking for condition reports from stations in the affected area and appreciates the consideration of radio amateurs in keeping the frequency clear and listening for possible relays.