Tropical Storm Oscar has dissipated as it approached the Bahamas after causing the deaths of at least six individuals in Cuba due to severe rainfall and flooding. The storm, which became a hurricane unexpectedly, recorded as the smallest hurricane on record. Meanwhile, forecasts suggest the potential for additional storm formation in the Atlantic.
Tropical Storm Oscar dissipated as it moved towards the Bahamas following a devastating impact on Cuba, where it made landfall as a Category 1 hurricane, resulting in the tragic loss of at least six lives and causing severe rainfall. On Tuesday, the remnants of Oscar were situated approximately 75 miles (115 kilometers) east-southeast of Long Island in the Bahamas, with sustained winds decreasing to 35 mph (55 kph) as they progressed northeast at a speed of 12 mph (19 kph), according to the National Hurricane Center in Miami. The storm’s remnants are expected to bring up to 4 inches (10 centimeters) of rain to the southeastern Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands. Oscar notably made history as the smallest recorded hurricane, possessing a wind field of just about 6 miles (10 kilometers) in diameter. It took many by surprise as it struck Grand Inagua Island in the Bahamas on Saturday and subsequently impacted eastern Cuba late Sunday, before executing a sharp turn back toward the Bahamas. Michael Lowry, a hurricane expert and storm surge specialist, stated, “It is not often we see a colossal failure in hurricane forecasting,” emphasizing that forecast models had not predicted the intensification of Oscar into a hurricane. Parts of eastern Cuba experienced rainfall exceeding 15 inches (38 centimeters), triggering warnings of significant flooding and potential landslides, particularly in Guantánamo, the site of the reported fatalities. This natural disaster coincided with Cuba’s ongoing recovery from a substantial power outage which had incited small protests and a stern admonition from the government against any acts of unrest. Oscar marked the 15th named storm and the 10th hurricane of the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30. Furthermore, meteorological projections indicate the possibility of another storm developing in the central Caribbean within the week. Lowry remarked, “One last gasp may be in store for the Atlantic as we turn the calendar to November.” The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has predicted an above-average hurricane season given the unprecedented warmth of ocean temperatures, forecasting between 17 to 25 named storms, including four to seven major hurricanes categorized as 3 or higher. In a separate occurrence, Tropical Storm Kristy has strengthened into a hurricane in the eastern Pacific Ocean and is forecasted to remain clear of land as it intensifies, being 590 miles (950 kilometers) west-southwest of Acapulco, Mexico, and moving westward at 18 mph (30 kph) with sustained winds reaching 75 mph (120 kph).
Tropical Storm Oscar formed during the Atlantic hurricane season and is notable for having transitioned to a hurricane within a very small wind field, thereby highlighting the unpredictability of storm development in meteorological forecasting. The storm caused fatalities and natural disaster challenges for Cuba, as it coincided with ongoing infrastructure issues on the island. The Atlantic hurricane season typically sees numerous named storms, but 2023 was expected to be particularly active due to warmer than average oceanic conditions, corroborating concerns from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
In summary, Tropical Storm Oscar has had a significant impact on Cuba, where it led to loss of life and extensive rainfall as it transited through the region. The storm’s rapid evolution and size exemplify challenges in hurricane forecasting. As the Atlantic season continues, meteorologists are on alert for potential further storm developments. Additionally, other storms in different oceanic regions, such as Hurricane Kristy in the eastern Pacific, highlight the prevailing patterns in global storm activity.
Original Source: apnews.com
