In brief
Hurricane Humberto, a Category 2 storm, is pushing its outer bands towards Bermuda, prompting a hurricane watch. Meanwhile, Hurricane Imelda, also a Category 2 storm, is expected to approach Bermuda shortly after, raising concerns among authorities about heavy rainfall and dangerous conditions. Bermuda’s Minister of National Security has advised residents to prepare for a significant weather event, highlighting the potential for flooding and infrastructure challenges. Areas affected by Imelda include eastern Cuba, where fatalities have already been reported due to flooding.
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) — The outer bands of Hurricane Humberto lashed Bermuda on Tuesday as it approached the tiny British territory, with newly formed Hurricane Imelda following closely behind.A hurricane watch was in effect for Bermuda as forecasters warned of dangerous seas, strong winds, and heavy rain. Humberto was located about 275 miles (440 kilometers) west of Bermuda, with maximum sustained winds of 100 mph (155 kph) and moving north-northwest at 17 mph (28 kph), according to the National Hurricane Center in Miami.Humberto was expected to pass well west and north of Bermuda on Tuesday and Wednesday morning, while Imelda was expected to pass near or over the island on Wednesday afternoon. Imelda was located about 180 miles (290 kilometers) north of Great Abaco Island with maximum sustained winds of 75 mph (120 kph), moving northeast at 7 mph (11 kph).Michael Weeks, Bermuda’s minister of national security, stated, “I strongly urge the public to prepare,” noting that the island faced a serious week of weather conditions. Bermuda, known for its sturdy infrastructure, is less vulnerable to storm damage, but the current weather patterns pose significant risks.Anticipated rainfall includes up to 2 inches (5 centimeters) from Humberto and up to 4 inches (10 centimeters) from Imelda, amplifying flood potential in the region. Imelda is also expected to affect coastal areas of southeast North Carolina, with rain that forecasters say could lead to flash and urban flooding.Earlier this week, Imelda battered eastern Cuba, killing two people, as noted by Prime Minister Manuel Marrero. Reports highlighted that landslides and severe flooding cut off 17 communities in Santiago de Cuba, impacting over 24,000 residents, and prompting evacuations of more than 18,000 people in Guantánamo province.
