A new tropical wave has come across the central Atlantic and is moving westward. The region’s geography and climate make it vulnerable to this weather. As the Caribbean faces the threat of a tropical wave, there is growing concern about flooding. Important places such as the ports and airports are situated at these points. Unfortunately, those are the coastal regions that are prone to flooding. Moreover, the problem is worsened by rising sea levels, which have increased over the past few years.
The NHC included a new area of interest on the tracking map for the first time. Also, a strong low-pressure system extends from the Yucatán Channel north of Honduras, with a few areas of rain and thunderstorms. The strong winds in the eastern and central Caribbean wave heights are from 3 to 5 feet above normal. Moreover, Tropical Storm Watches are already in effect, and these areas need to be prepared for strong winds, heavy rain, and possible flash flooding.
The Hurricane Center has updated the chance of a new tropical wave in the Central Atlantic to 40 per cent. Moreover, it won’t be leading into a storm anytime soon, tracking west and near the Caribbean at the start of the upcoming week. However, on 1 September, the first day of meteorological fall, at the end of the summer and halfway through the hurricane season, there’s no change found in the outlook as it continues to track west. There are warnings issued that disturbances will probably reach the islands tomorrow and move through the Caribbean Sea into midweek.
Moreover, the NHC warns that conditions are becoming more favorable for intensifying this system. Once it develops a stronger core, it has the potential to strengthen rapidly into a hurricane later. However, the threat is from floods and destructive strong winds, which could cause significant damage.
Meteorologists look for factors in tropical predictions, such as humidity in the atmosphere, wind directions and patterns, and clusters of low-pressure action over Africa that move west across the Atlantic. They also look for transitions in atmospheric conditions from dry and windy to moist and calm. These transitions play an essential role in either strengthening or weakening a storm. Throughout September, varying wind directions can promote or hinder tropical development. The favorable conditions of low wind shear increase the chances of developing tropical systems.
However, the hurricane season begins on June 1 and lasts until November 30. During this time, more storms could happen in the tropical Atlantic, which will be monitored. While tropical waves bring risk, being informed and prepared can help reduce their impact. Moreover, regular updates from the National Hurricane Center and local weather services can help overcome these.
