Hurricane Omar

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Tropical Storm Omar formed over the eastern Caribbean early on October 14, 2008, and by late afternoon was carrying maximum sustained winds just below Category 1 hurricane strength. The storm grew into Hurricane Omar within hours, becoming a powerful Category 3 hurricane as it crossed the Virgin Islands on October 15. On the morning of October 16, the storm rapidly weakened into a Category 1 hurricane, with wind speeds of about 85 miles per hour.National Hurricane Center: Public Advisory

On the morning of October 15, 2008, hurricane warnings were issued for the U.S. Virgin Islands and were expected to be issued for Puerto Rico as well. Tropical storm warnings were up for the islands of Antigua, Barbuda and Montserrat. By day's end, Omar had strengthened into a dangerous Category 3 hurricane as it approached the Virgin Islands. Forecasters warned that the storm could dump up to 20 inches of rain on some areas, causing flooding and potential mudslides.CNN: Hurricane Omar picks up strength as it approaches islands (October 15, 2008) National Hurricane Center: Public Advisory