Tropical Storm Oscar, after making landfall in Cuba as a Category 1 hurricane, is moving towards the Bahamas, causing at least six deaths and severe rainfall. It is noted for being the smallest recorded hurricane and continues to bring significant rainfall and warnings of flooding as it weakens.
Tropical Storm Oscar advanced toward the Bahamas on Tuesday, following its landfall in Cuba as a Category 1 hurricane. This powerful storm resulted in at least six fatalities as it brought intense rainfall to a region already grappling with a significant power outage. On Tuesday morning, Oscar was situated approximately 45 miles (75 kilometers) south-southeast of Long Island, Bahamas, with sustained winds reaching 40 mph (65 kph) and moving in a north-northeast direction at 12 mph (19 kph), according to data from the National Hurricane Center in Miami. Currently, Oscar is described as barely maintaining its status as a tropical storm. Forecasters predict that it could deliver up to 5 inches (13 centimeters) of rain across southeastern Bahamas, potentially reaching 8 inches (20 centimeters) in localized areas. A tropical storm warning is in effect for the central and southeastern parts of the Bahamas. Significantly, Oscar stands out in meteorological history as the smallest recorded hurricane, featuring a wind field of approximately 6 miles (10 kilometers). Its landfall caught many by surprise, hitting Grand Inagua Island in the Bahamas on Saturday and subsequently impacting eastern Cuba late Sunday. “It’s not often we see a colossal failure in hurricane forecasting,” remarked Michael Lowry, a hurricane specialist, reflecting on the unexpected intensity of the storm. In Cuba, Oscar deposited at least 15 inches (38 centimeters) of rain in certain areas, prompting urgent warnings regarding heavy flooding and potential landslides. The reported fatalities occurred in Guantánamo province. The storm coincides with Cuba’s ongoing recovery from a massive blackout that had incited minor protests and prompted dire warnings from the government against any form of civil unrest. Oscar is classified as the 15th named storm and the 10th hurricane of the Atlantic hurricane season, which spans from June 1 to November 30. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration had forecasted an above-average hurricane season this year, attributing it to the exceedingly warm ocean temperatures. Predictions suggested an outlook of 17 to 25 named storms, including four to seven major hurricanes classified as Category 3 or higher. Meanwhile, in the Pacific Ocean, Tropical Storm Kristy was observed over open waters, located 375 miles (605 kilometers) west-southwest of Acapulco, Mexico, boasting maximum sustained winds of 50 mph (85 kph) and moving west-northwest at 15 mph (24 kph). Kristy is expected to escalate into hurricane status by Tuesday night.
Tropical Storm Oscar recently made landfall in Cuba, resulting in casualties and substantial rainfall. The Atlantic hurricane season, which is under observation for increased storm activity due to unusually warm ocean temperatures, includes Oscar as significant due to its record size and unexpected strength. The consequences of this storm are exacerbated by Cuba’s existing issues with power outages, highlighting the vulnerability of the region during hurricane season. The National Hurricane Center provides real-time data and forecasting, which is crucial for understanding the trajectory and potential impacts of such storms.
In summary, Tropical Storm Oscar has evolved from a Category 1 hurricane to a weakening tropical storm as it moves toward the Bahamas. With historical implications as the smallest hurricane recorded, Oscar’s effects have tragically resulted in fatalities and severe rainfall, raising concerns of flooding and landslides in affected regions. As hurricane season progresses, the unpredictability of storm development remains a pressing issue, particularly as impacted areas like Cuba continue to recover from prior disruptions.
Original Source: www.washingtontimes.com
