Irma builds in strength

HURRICANE Irma grew into a powerful Category 4 storm yesterday as it approached the northeastern Caribbean and was forecast to begin buffeting the region today.

The storm had maximum sustained winds of 220km/h and the US National Hurricane Centre said additional strengthening was expected.

Irma was centered 725km east of the Leeward Islands and moving west at 20km/h.

Emergency officials warned the storm could unleash landslides and flash floods.