Hurricane Rafael is moving away from Florida but generates dangerous rip currents prompting a safety advisory. The storm retains strong winds but is not expected to significantly affect the area. Another system near Puerto Rico is being monitored for potential development with low chances, while drier air will lead to clearer skies.
At 4 p.m., the National Weather Service provided an update regarding Hurricane Rafael and additional disturbances in the region. Although Hurricane Rafael continues its path away from our coastal area, it is generating high waves that have prompted a rip current advisory for local beaches. Rip currents, which are more deadly than hurricanes or floods in Florida, require swimmers to adhere strictly to safety precautions, such as utilizing lifeguarded areas and swimming parallel to the shoreline if caught in a current. Currently, Hurricane Rafael remains a robust storm with sustained winds of 105 mph, progressing westward at 9 mph. This storm features a well-defined eye and is predicted to maintain its westward trajectory with minimal impact on our region. However, it may have a brief opportunity for intensification within the next 24 hours before confronting adverse wind conditions and dry air, which will likely cause it to weaken as it moves further west. Meteorologists are also monitoring another system located near Puerto Rico, which possesses only a 20% chance of development in the coming days. This system is expected to move westward with marginal chances for further intensification; however, it may introduce some moisture to our area by late Sunday or into Veteran’s Day. Furthermore, a shift to drier air is anticipated on Friday, which will result in decreased humidity levels and clearer skies as high pressure builds behind Rafael, leading to more sunshine over the weekend.
The tropical weather system under observation includes Hurricane Rafael, currently moving away from Florida but generating significant ocean conditions. Rip currents pose a serious threat to beachgoers, as they account for more fatalities annually than other severe weather phenomena. Understanding the dynamics of hurricanes and associated disturbances, like Rafael, helps the public remain informed about potential impacts and necessary precautions. The monitoring of this and other systems like the one near Puerto Rico is crucial for adequate weather preparedness in coastal areas.
In summary, Hurricane Rafael is moving away from Florida while creating hazardous rip currents along the coast, necessitating adherence to safety regulations for swimmers. The storm maintains strong winds but is not expected to significantly impact the local area. Additional monitoring of a lower-chance disturbance near Puerto Rico indicates a possibility for moisture later this weekend. Drier air moving in will provide relief from humidity and enhance sunshine levels throughout the weekend.
Original Source: www.mysuncoast.com
