Tropical Storm Oscar Approaches the Bahamas Following Deadly Impact in Cuba

Tropical Storm Oscar has moved toward the Bahamas after causing at least six fatalities in Cuba. Originally a Category 1 hurricane, the storm now exhibits sustained winds of 40 mph and is forecasted to bring significant rainfall to the Bahamas. Meteorologists note this storm’s unexpected strength and size, and there are predictions for further storm development in the Caribbean.

Tropical Storm Oscar is currently moving toward the Bahamas following its recent impact in Cuba, where it made landfall as a Category 1 hurricane. The storm has tragically resulted in the fatalities of at least six individuals due to the severe conditions it imposed, including significant rainfall. On Tuesday morning, Oscar was recorded at a location approximately 70 miles (110 kilometers) east-southeast of Long Island in the Bahamas, exhibiting diminished maximum sustained winds of 40 mph (65 kph) and proceeding northeast at a rate of 12 mph (19 kph), as reported by the National Hurricane Center in Miami. The storm is forecasted to deposit up to 4 inches (10 centimeters) of rain across the southeastern Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands, leading to the issuance of a tropical storm warning in these areas. Notably, Oscar is recognized as the smallest hurricane on record, possessing a wind field of merely 6 miles (10 kilometers), which took many observers by surprise during its landfall on Grand Inagua Island in the Bahamas on Saturday, followed by a second landfall in eastern Cuba late Sunday. Hurricane specialist and storm surge expert Michael Lowry commented in an analysis, “It is not often we witness a colossal failure in hurricane forecasting.” He highlighted that forecasting models did not predict Oscar’s strengthening into a hurricane. In Cuba, the storm resulted in up to 15 inches (38 centimeters) of rain in specific regions, raising concerns about flooding and potential landslides. The six reported fatalities occurred in Guantánamo, amidst a challenging backdrop of a massive power outage affecting the island, which has also incited small protests and stern government admonitions against civil unrest. Oscar marks the 15th named storm and the 10th hurricane of the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30. Furthermore, forecasters anticipate the emergence of another storm in the central Caribbean in approximately one week. “One last gasp may be in store for the Atlantic as we turn the calendar to November,” said Lowry. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has projected an above-average Atlantic hurricane season this year due to unprecedented ocean temperatures, estimating between 17 to 25 named storms and four to seven major hurricanes of Category 3 or higher before the season concludes. Meanwhile, in the Pacific Ocean, Tropical Storm Kristy is reported to be located 470 miles (755 kilometers) west-southwest of Acapulco, Mexico, with winds reaching up to 60 mph (95 kph) and moving westward at a speed of 16 mph (26 kph). Kristy is anticipated to escalate into a hurricane later on Tuesday evening.

The Atlantic hurricane season, lasting from June to November, often yields a range of storm activity, with varying intensities and impacts on affected areas. As a result of the current climate conditions, such as elevated ocean temperatures, meteorological organizations like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration have issued forecasts indicating the likelihood of an increased number of tropical storms and hurricanes this season. Understanding the implications of such disturbances, both ecologically and socio-economically, is vital for the preparation and response of vulnerable regions, particularly in places like the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico, where storms can result in significant disruption.

In summary, Tropical Storm Oscar has unfortunately led to loss of life and severe weather conditions in Cuba, traversing back toward the Bahamas with ongoing concerns for rainfall and flooding. As the season progresses, the potential for further storms remains a critical consideration for meteorological agencies and affected regions. The storms pose not only immediate risks but also have longer-term socio-economic repercussions, especially in areas already grappling with infrastructural challenges.

Original Source: triblive.com