MIAMI (AP) — A weather system is forecast to intensify into Tropical Storm Imelda later today, with expectations of approaching the South Carolina coast as a hurricane early next week. Meanwhile, Hurricane Humberto, now slightly weakened but still a robust Category 4 storm, poses a threat to Bermuda and continues to generate concerns.
South Carolina's Governor, Henry McMaster, has urged residents to stay informed about weather developments, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. In contrast, North Carolina's Governor, Josh Stein, has declared a state of emergency in anticipation of the impending storm.
Forecasts indicate that the system currently known as Tropical Depression Nine should evolve into a tropical storm on Sunday and potentially strengthen into a hurricane by late Monday or Tuesday. As of Sunday morning, the system was located approximately 100 miles west-southwest of the Central Bahamas, with maximum sustained winds registered at 35 mph.
Governor McMaster warns residents, stating, This storm is deadly serious. Not just serious. Deadly serious. Preparations are underway, with search and rescue operations being readied to respond to potential emergencies.
Hurricane Humberto continues to warrant attention, located about 585 miles south of Bermuda, traveling west-northwest at a speed of 13 mph. According to meteorological updates, maximum sustained winds reached 155 mph, keeping it firmly in the Category 4 range.
The inhabitants of Bermuda may receive a tropical storm watch later today, with large swells expected to impact the U.S. east coast on Monday.
In the Caribbean, Tropical Depression Nine is currently affecting Cuba and the Bahamas with heavy rainfall and possible flash floods. The Bahamas Meteorological Department has cautioned about potential storm conditions, advising residents to finalize their preparations.
As the weather system moves across the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic has already experienced heavy rains, prompting evacuations and a red alert across five provinces.
Further complicating the weather landscape, Tropical Storm Narda in the Pacific, located 1,045 miles west-southwest of Mexico’s Baja California, presents additional hazards, while monitoring continues for impacts along coastal areas.
