Tropical Storm Oscar Weakens After Causing Fatalities in Cuba
Tropical Storm Oscar, which caused six fatalities in Cuba as a Category 1 hurricane, weakened en route to the Bahamas. The remnants are expected to yield significant rainfall in the region. Oscar stands out as the smallest recorded hurricane, and forecasters note the unpredictability of hurricane developments. The Atlantic hurricane season continues with expectations of further storm activity.
Tropical Storm Oscar, which had transformed into a Category 1 hurricane, weakened significantly as it progressed toward the Bahamas following its landfall in Cuba, where it tragically resulted in the deaths of at least six individuals. According to the National Hurricane Center in Miami, the remnants of Oscar were located approximately 75 miles (115 kilometers) east-southeast of Long Island in the Bahamas, exhibiting maximum sustained winds of merely 35 mph (55 kph) as it moved northeast at a speed of 12 mph (19 kph). The storm is anticipated to contribute up to 4 inches (10 centimeters) of rainfall across the southeastern Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands. Remarkably, Oscar has been noted for its status as the smallest recorded hurricane, possessing a wind field of approximately 6 miles (10 kilometers) across. The unanticipated strength of Oscar caught meteorologists off guard; it made its initial landfall on Grand Inagua Island, Bahamas, on Saturday, followed by a secondary landfall in eastern Cuba late Sunday, before unexpectedly reversing direction back towards the Bahamas. Michael Lowry, a hurricane specialist, pointed out the unexpected nature of Oscar’s intensification by asserting, “It’s not often we see a colossal failure in hurricane forecasting,” highlighting that forecasting models did not predict that Oscar would reach hurricane status. During its passage, Oscar unleashed substantial rainfall, amounting to at least 15 inches (38 centimeters) in certain regions of eastern Cuba, which raised concerns regarding potential flooding and landslides. The fatalities occurred in Guantánamo, Cuba, a region that was concurrently grappling with a significant blackout that had instigated minor protests and prompted strong government warnings against civil unrest. During the current Atlantic hurricane season, Oscar was recognized as the 15th named storm and the 10th hurricane, with the season expected to persist until November 30. Meteorologists are currently predicting the possibility of another storm forming in the central Caribbean within the next week. Michael Lowry remarked, “One last gasp may be in store for the Atlantic as we turn the calendar to November.” Furthermore, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration had predicted an above-average Atlantic hurricane season this year, largely attributed to exceptionally high ocean temperatures, forecasting between 17 and 25 named storms, including 4 to 7 major hurricanes of Category 3 or higher. In a parallel development, Kristy strengthened into a hurricane over the eastern Pacific Ocean but is not expected to pose any threat to land, currently located 590 miles (950 kilometers) west-southwest of Acapulco, Mexico, with maximum sustained winds of 75 mph (120 kph).
Tropical Storm Oscar emerged during the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs annually from June 1 to November 30. The season is often characterized by warm ocean temperatures that promote the formation of tropical storms and hurricanes. Oscar’s unexpected development and subsequent intensification caught meteorologists off guard, highlighting the challenges involved in hurricane forecasting. The storm’s impact on Cuba, a nation already overcome with challenges such as power outages and civil unrest, illustrates the compounded effects natural disasters can have on vulnerable communities. The backdrop also includes NOAA’s forecasts suggesting an above-average hurricane season, emphasizing the importance of preparedness for future storms.
In summary, Tropical Storm Oscar transitioned from a hurricane causing fatalities in Cuba to its disintegration as it approached the Bahamas. The storm’s unique characteristic as the smallest hurricane on record, coupled with its unexpected intensification, reflects the complexities of weather forecasting. As forecasts indicate a potentially active remaining hurricane season, there is an urgent need for vigilance and preparedness within impacted regions. The dual occurrences of Oscar and Kristy in different ocean basins highlight the ongoing challenges posed by severe weather patterns.
Original Source: apnews.com
