Residents urged to stay alert as Humberto remains a potential threat
Satellite image of Hurricane Humberto churning in the Atlantic from Zoom.Earth
Hurricane Humberto continues to strengthen in the Atlantic, with forecasters warning of hazardous conditions over the next few days and growing uncertainty due to the possible development of a second storm nearby.
As of the latest advisory, Humberto’s nearest forecast point within 72 hours is 169 nm to the NW at 2 am on Wednesday, October 1.
According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), Humberto is currently a Category 4 hurricane with maximum sustained winds near 150 mph (240 km/h) and higher gusts. Fluctuations in strength are possible, though the storm is expected to remain a dangerous major hurricane for the next couple of days. Hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 35 miles, while tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 140 miles.
Image from the Bermuda Weather Service
The Bermuda Weather Service (BWS) says Humberto is forecast to weaken to a Category 3 as it passes west of the island between Monday and Wednesday.
“Moderate to strong east-southeasterly winds are currently expected to veer southerly on Tuesday, further strengthening overnight, with the potential for near-tropical storm force winds (30-40 knots) and higher gusts (50-60 knots) in and around showers into Wednesday,” advised the BWS.
Dangerous marine conditions, including high surf and life-threatening rip currents are also expected.
Image from the Bermuda Weather Service
Forecasters caution that some uncertainty remains, as Tropical Storm Imelda is expected to form west of Humberto. The two systems could interact in a rare ‘Fujiwhara effect,’ which may alter the storm’s track and intensity.
The BWS continues to list Humberto as a potential threat to Bermuda and urges residents to closely monitor updates from both the BWS and the NHC.
In a post to its social media, Government advised the public that now is the time to review your plans and stay closely tuned to official updates.
For preparedness tips, visit: www.gov.bm/are-you-ready-hurricane-season .
