Tropical Storm Matthew’s winds have increased to 50 miles (85 kilometers) an hour from 45 mph earlier today, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) has reported. A hurricane warning is in place from Puerto Cabezas in Nicaragua to Limon, Honduras, including the offshore islands of Guanaja, Utila, Roatan, and the outlying keys (cays). Winds of 74 mph are expected within 36 hours.

“Matthew could be near hurricane strength before it moves close to Central America late today,” according to the NHC. “The center of Matthew is expected to be near or over northeastern Nicaragua and eastern Honduras later today.”

The center warned of heavy rainfall over Honduras of six to 15 inches in isolated areas, including life-threatening flash floods and possible landslides.