Tropical Storm Oscar Moves Toward the Bahamas After Impacting Cuba

Tropical Storm Oscar, previously a hurricane that struck Cuba, is moving toward the Bahamas, causing six fatalities and heavy rainfall. Currently located near Long Island, Bahamas, Oscar presents flooding risks as it transitions into a weaker tropical storm. Meanwhile, the NOAA projects an above-average hurricane season, while Tropical Storm Kristy is developing in the Pacific Ocean.

Tropical Storm Oscar has been moving toward the Bahamas following its landfall in Cuba as a Category 1 hurricane, causing the deaths of at least six individuals and leading to substantial rainfall on a nation already grappling with a severe power outage. As of Tuesday morning, Oscar was reported to be situated approximately 45 miles (75 kilometers) south-southeast of Long Island in the Bahamas, with sustained winds recorded at 40 mph (65 kph) while advancing north-northeast at 12 mph (19 kph). According to the National Hurricane Center in Miami, Oscar is currently classified as barely a tropical storm. Forecasts indicate the potential for up to 5 inches (13 centimeters) of rainfall across the southeastern Bahamas, with certain isolated areas possibly experiencing up to 8 inches (20 centimeters). Consequently, a tropical storm warning has been issued for the central and southeastern Bahamas. Notably, Oscar achieved the distinction of being the smallest hurricane ever documented, possessing a wind field of only about 6 miles (10 kilometers) across. Despite its minimal size, it made unexpected landfalls on Grand Inagua Island in the Bahamas on Saturday and eastern Cuba late Sunday. Michael Lowry, a hurricane specialist, remarked, “It’s not often we see a colossal failure in hurricane forecasting,” highlighting the inadequate predictive models prior to Oscar’s strengthening into hurricane status. In Cuba, the storm precipitated over 15 inches (38 centimeters) of rainfall in certain eastern regions, raising concerns over severe flooding and potential landslides. The six fatalities reported were concentrated in Guantánamo. This adverse weather event coincides with Cuba’s recovery efforts following a significant blackout that has incited public protests and stern government responses against potential unrest. Oscar is officially the 15th named storm and the 10th hurricane during the Atlantic hurricane season, which commenced on June 1 and will conclude on November 30. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has predicted an above-average hurricane season for 2024, citing unprecedented ocean temperature records, and anticipates a total of 17 to 25 named storms, including four to seven major hurricanes classified as Category 3 or higher. Alongside Oscar, Tropical Storm Kristy is also being monitored as it navigates the Pacific Ocean with expectations of intensifying into a hurricane.

The Atlantic hurricane season spans from June 1 to November 30, making it crucial for meteorologists and emergency services to track and report on storm activity. Recent advancements in meteorological technology allow for more accurate forecasting, but unpredictability remains a challenge, as evidenced by Tropical Storm Oscar’s unexpected strength and impact. The storm’s small size yet powerful winds showcase the intricacies of storm behavior in relation to oceanic conditions and atmospheric phenomena. This year has been marked by elevated ocean temperatures leading to predictions of an active hurricane season, emphasizing the need for vigilance among coastal communities. Notably, Oscar’s impact on Cuba is exacerbated by an existing power crisis, revealing the compound nature of disaster responses in areas facing concurrent crises.

In summary, Tropical Storm Oscar has significantly impacted Cuba and is now approaching the Bahamas. The storm has caused fatalities and severe flooding while complicating recovery efforts from previous power outages in Cuba. As the Atlantic hurricane season continues, the unpredictability of storms like Oscar underscores the importance of timely and accurate forecasting. The NOAA’s prediction of an active season reinforces the necessity for preparedness among at-risk communities. Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Kristy serves as a reminder of the ongoing vigilance required in monitoring simultaneous storm activities in different oceanic regions.

Original Source: www.washingtontimes.com