MIDWAY, Fla. (WTXL) -- The fierce Hurricane Joaquin slammed islands in the central Bahamas for a second day Friday. While effects there have been severe, chances for direct impacts along the U.S. eastern seaboard have decreased.
Late Friday afternoon, the storm was near San Salvador in the Bahamas. Its peak winds had decreased slightly to 125 mph, which still keeps Joaquin at Category 3 major hurricane status.
The anticipated turn to the north has begun, with Joaquin moving at 7 mph.
Hurricane warnings remain in effect for the central and northwestern Bahamas. No tropical-related advisories are issued for any parts of the United States.
A stationary frontal boundary off the Atlantic coast of the U.S., along with an upper-level disturbance over the Southeast, will keep Joaquin in the western Atlantic, moving on more of a north to northeasterly path. The latest forecast cone avoids coverage of any part of the east coast of the United States. Cooler water temperatures and stronger upper-level winds cause a gradual weakening trend.
High tidal flooding and significant beach erosion are possible from the Outer Banks through the Jersey Shore this weekend, and possibly as far north as the New England coastline.