Unusual Tropical Storm Dance in the Caribbean
Two tropical storm systems may soon meet in the Caribbean. This unusual interaction could give the Carolina coast some unexpected relief from a developing storm.
A tropical depression, likely to be named Imelda, is moving toward the South Carolina and North Carolina border. If it stalls, it might unleash heavy rain and flooding. This system is currently off the coast of Cuba and is expected to reach the Bahamas by early next week, according to National Hurricane Center Director Michael Brennan. He warns residents in the Carolinas to stay alert for potential rainfall and hazards.
“People need to pay attention,” he stressed. “A system could form and make landfall in just a few days.”
But there’s potential good news. The stronger storm, Humberto, is further east and may interact with Imelda. Humberto, which just reached hurricane strength, might divert the smaller storm or even pull it apart. They could also merge into a larger storm, explains Brian McNoldy, a hurricane researcher at the University of Miami.
This interaction is known as the Fujiwhara Effect, named after the Japanese scientist who discovered it over a century ago. It’s rare, especially in the Atlantic. Two years ago, storms Philippe and Rina showcased this phenomenon far from the mainland U.S.
“Right now, the two systems are about 1,100 miles apart,” Brennan noted. They usually need to be within 800 miles for significant interaction. Most likely, Humberto will pull Imelda east, away from the coast.
McNoldy commented, “I wish they were closer. It would be fascinating to watch, and it could push Imelda out to sea.”
The key lies in Humberto’s movement. “If it moves west and speeds up, it could change everything,” McNoldy said.
Humberto’s structure influences the air around it. As it rises, it creates conditions that may suppress Imelda. Ryan Torn, an atmospheric scientist from SUNY Albany, noted that NOAA is conducting extra flights to study the atmosphere between these two systems.
Such interactions are rare because developing storms usually space themselves apart as they travel off the African coast.
Staying informed is essential, as weather can change rapidly. Being aware of these systems helps mitigate potential disasters. For detailed updates, check the National Hurricane Center’s website.
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Brian McNoldy,Science,environment,Climate
