Urgent: Hurricane Watches Issued for Cuba and Mexico as Tropical Storm Cluster Strengthens
Heavy Rainfall and Flooding Risks
Western Cuba and the Cayman Islands are expected to receive up to eight inches of rain, with isolated totals of 12 inches (30 centimeters) in some areas. The eastern Yucatán Peninsula could see up to four inches (10 centimeters) of rain, with localized totals surpassing six inches (15 centimeters). This heavy rainfall poses a significant risk of flash and river flooding.
In the Southeast U.S., heavy rainfall is forecast to begin on Wednesday, and flash floods are also a threat. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has warned that these conditions could worsen as the storm approaches the U.S. coast.
Storm Surge and Warnings
The NHC predicts storm surges of up to four feet (1.2 meters) for parts of Cuba and Mexico, adding to the potential for severe coastal flooding. A hurricane watch is currently in effect for the Cuban province of Pinar del Río and parts of eastern Mexico, from Cabo Catoche to Tulum. A tropical storm warning has been issued for eastern Mexico, extending from Río Lagartos to Tulum, as well as for the Cuban provinces of Artemisa, Pinar del Río, and the Isle of Youth.
The Cayman Islands Take Precautions
In anticipation of the storm’s impacts, authorities in the Cayman Islands closed schools on Monday, with the region bracing for heavy flooding and dangerous conditions. The disturbance is expected to pass between Cuba and Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula in the coming days, with the potential for further strengthening.
Forecast and Hurricane Season Outlook: Brace for Impact
The storm, expected to be named Hurricane Helene, could become a major hurricane as early as Wednesday when it nears the Gulf Coast. The NHC has warned that it may reach Category 3 or higher, particularly as it approaches Florida’s northeastern Gulf Coast by Thursday. This is not a storm to be taken lightly.
“This storm could be a major threat to parts of north Florida, particularly the Big Bend region before the workweek ends,” said Michael Lowry, a hurricane specialist and storm surge expert.
As of Monday, the cluster of storms was located 130 miles (205 kilometers) south-southwest of Grand Cayman, with sustained winds of 30 mph (45 kph) and moving north at six mph (9 kph).
Above-Average Hurricane Season
This storm would be the eighth named system of the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has predicted an above-average season due to record-high ocean temperatures. The NOAA forecasts 17 to 25 named storms, with four to seven expected to reach Category 3 strength or higher.
The upcoming days will be critical for monitoring the development of this storm and the potential impacts on Cuba, Mexico, and the U.S. Stay vigilant and keep an eye on the latest updates.