MIAMI (AP) — Hurricane Humberto has rapidly intensified in the Atlantic Ocean, with its wind speeds reaching 145 mph (230 kph) as it bears down on the eastern Caribbean. Meanwhile, another weather system threatens the Southeast U.S. with heavy rainfall and potential flash flooding.
The Miami-based National Hurricane Center confirmed that Humberto is currently a Category 4 hurricane, located approximately 375 miles northeast of the northern Leeward Islands and moving west at 6 mph (9 kph). This storm poses serious threats to the northern Leeward Islands, Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and Bermuda with dangerous surf and rip currents.
In tandem, a developing weather system is on track to impact the Bahamas and Cuba, prompting advisories and possible tropical storm warnings. Forecasters predict that this system might strengthen into a tropical storm by Sunday and potentially a hurricane by Monday.
South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster has declared a state of emergency, facilitating coordination between state and federal agencies as preparations are made for the looming storm. Crews are mobilizing in Charleston, gathering sandbags and checking high water vehicles in anticipation of heavy rainfall.
Charleston Chief Fire Marshal Michael Julazadeh noted, 'Even though this has not formed yet, we are treating it as if we are expecting some kind of impact. That’s critical. We don’t want to downplay the scenario.'
The tropical disturbance has already resulted in severe flooding in the Dominican Republic, displacing over 700 individuals and prompting authorities to declare red alerts in five provinces, as rivers overflow and landslides occur.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency urges residents in coastal Southeast U.S. areas to remain vigilant, and they stand prepared to respond swiftly to any emergencies that may arise from the storm's development.
In the eastern Atlantic, the post-tropical cyclone Gabrielle has moved away from the Azores, with a hurricane warning now lifted for the Portuguese archipelago. Meanwhile, in the Pacific, Hurricane Narda continues to affect coastal areas as it maintains strength before expected weakening.
