Tropical Storm Oscar Affects Cuba and Approaches the Bahamas

Tropical Storm Oscar intensified into a Category 1 hurricane before making landfall in Cuba, leading to six fatalities and heavy rainfall. As it approached the Bahamas, it prompted warnings of significant rain and flooding. The storm’s unexpected development highlights challenges in hurricane forecasting within an Atlantic season predicted to be above average this year.

Tropical Storm Oscar progressed towards the Bahamas on Tuesday after making landfall in Cuba as a Category 1 hurricane, resulting in at least six fatalities due to its intense rains. As of Tuesday morning, the storm was situated approximately 45 miles (75 kilometers) south-southeast of Long Island in the Bahamas, exhibiting winds of 40 mph (65 kph) and advancing north-northeast at a pace of 12 mph (19 kph), as reported by the National Hurricane Center in Miami. Currently classified as a minimal tropical storm, Oscar was anticipated to unleash between 5 to 8 inches (13 to 20 centimeters) of rainfall over the southeastern Bahamas, prompting the issuance of a tropical storm warning for the region. Remarkably noted for being the smallest hurricane on record, with a wind field spanning merely 6 miles (10 kilometers), Oscar unexpectedly intensified upon striking Grand Inagua Island in the Bahamas on Saturday and subsequently eastern Cuba late Sunday. Hurricane specialist Michael Lowry emphasized the unexpected nature of the storm’s intensity by remarking, “It’s not often we see a colossal failure in hurricane forecasting,” highlighting that no predictive models had suggested Oscar would develop into a hurricane. In Cuba, the storm deposited over 15 inches (38 centimeters) of rain in eastern regions, raising concerns about severe flooding and potential landslides. The reported deaths in Guantánamo were particularly tragic, occurring as Cuba grapples with the aftermath of a significant power outage that has ignited small protests and elicited stern warnings from the government against unrest. Oscar marks 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 storm season due to unprecedented ocean temperatures, predicting 17 to 25 named storms, including 4 to 7 major hurricanes of Category 3 or higher. On a related note, Tropical Storm Kristy was also noted over open waters in the Pacific Ocean, positioned 375 miles (605 kilometers) west-southwest of Acapulco, Mexico, with maximum sustained winds of 50 mph (85 kph) and moving west-northwest at 15 mph (24 kph). Kristy is expected to achieve hurricane status by Tuesday evening.

Tropical Storm Oscar has emerged during a turbulent Atlantic hurricane season, contributing to a series of significant weather events. The storm’s unexpected transformation into a hurricane prompted scrutiny regarding forecasting accuracy, particularly as it affected regions already challenged by infrastructural issues. This year’s hurricane season is characterized by notably high ocean temperatures, which the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration posits could lead to an elevated number of storms and hurricanes, thus emphasizing the importance of vigilant monitoring and preparedness.

In conclusion, Tropical Storm Oscar has had a substantial impact on Cuba and the Bahamas, illustrating the unpredictable nature of hurricanes and their forecasting. The storm’s development into a hurricane caught specialists off guard, resulting in fatalities and significant rainfall across affected areas. With the Atlantic hurricane season forecasted to remain active, it is imperative for communities to remain aware and prepared for potential weather threats.

Original Source: www.seattletimes.com