Tropical Storm Imelda and Hurricane Humberto: A Shift in Forecast and Impacts
A significant change has occurred in the trajectory of Tropical Storm Imelda, leading to a revised outlook for the Southeast coast. The storm, which formed over the Bahamas on Sunday afternoon, is now expected to intensify into a hurricane while shifting its path away from direct landfall. This development has led to updated warnings and preparations across affected regions.
Imelda currently has maximum sustained winds of 40 mph and is located 335 miles southeast of Cape Canaveral, Florida. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has discontinued tropical storm watches for parts of Florida’s east coast based on the latest forecast data. However, the storm remains a concern for the central and northwestern Bahamas, where heavy rainfall is expected to cause flash flooding.
Path and Intensity of Imelda
The storm is moving northward parallel to Florida’s Atlantic coast through Monday, but it is now projected to make an abrupt turn eastward, away from the coast. This shift means that the storm will likely intensify into a hurricane by late Monday or Tuesday. Although the immediate threat to the Southeast coast has lessened, coastal areas in eastern Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas are still expected to experience the storm’s impacts.
Rainfall totals in the Bahamas and eastern Cuba could range from 4 to 12 inches, posing a risk of severe flooding. In the Carolinas, the NHC has reduced the forecasted rainfall to 2 to 6 inches through Wednesday morning. However, strong onshore winds could lead to high surf, coastal flooding, and beach erosion.
Role of Hurricane Humberto
Imelda is not the only storm affecting the region. Hurricane Humberto, which rapidly intensified into a Category 5 storm over the warm waters of the open ocean, is playing a key role in shaping Imelda’s future. The two storms are engaged in a tropical tug-of-war, with Humberto exerting a stronger influence on Imelda’s path.
Humberto weakened slightly to a high-end Category 4 hurricane on Sunday morning but is expected to remain powerful throughout the week. While it does not pose a direct threat to the U.S., it may affect Bermuda with bands of rain and gusty winds. The Bermuda Weather Service has issued a tropical storm watch for the archipelago.
Preparations and Warnings
Despite the improved outlook, officials in the Southeast have remained vigilant. South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency, activating statewide response plans and mobilizing agencies to prepare for wind, flooding, and storm surge. The City of Charleston also declared a local state of emergency, distributing sandbags and clearing storm drains.
Residents from the Bahamas to the Southeast coast and Bermuda are advised to continue monitoring the forecast. While the U.S. appears to be avoiding a more serious impact, the situation remains dynamic, and updates are essential for those in affected areas.
Ongoing Monitoring and Future Outlook
The NHC has emphasized that while the risk of significant wind impacts along the southeastern United States coast is decreasing, people should still stay informed about the latest forecasts. Imelda’s wind field is expected to grow, bringing strong gusts to the Southeast coast early to midweek.
As the storm continues to evolve, the focus remains on ensuring public safety and preparedness. With the potential for flooding and coastal hazards, staying updated on weather developments is crucial for all those in the path of the storm.
Key Takeaways
- Tropical Storm Imelda has shifted its path away from the Southeast coast.
- Heavy rainfall is expected in the Bahamas and eastern Cuba, increasing flood risks.
- Hurricane Humberto is influencing Imelda’s movement, potentially altering its trajectory.
- Preparations are ongoing in the Southeast, with states like South Carolina taking proactive measures.
- Bermuda may face some effects from both storms, though no direct threat is expected.
- Continued monitoring is recommended for all affected regions as the storm evolves.
