Tropical Storm Ophelia near Mid-Atlantic Coast with strong winds.
Tropical Storm Ophelia Approaches North Carolina Coast, Bringing Heavy Rain and Wind
Tropical Storm Ophelia is gaining strength as it heads towards the North Carolina coast, promising a weekend of intense weather conditions throughout the mid-Atlantic. Forecasters have issued a hurricane watch for parts of eastern North Carolina, with landfall expected on Saturday morning. The storm is projected to bring up to 7 inches of rain to portions of North Carolina and southeast Virginia.
The intensifying weather system has already transformed into a tropical storm, with maximum sustained winds of 70 mph and higher gusts, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center.
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The storm is not expected to strengthen further before making landfall and is predicted to weaken afterward, according to the hurricane center. As of late evening, Ophelia was approximately 70 miles south of Cape Lookout, North Carolina, and moving north-northwest at 12 mph.
Water levels are rising along the North Carolina coast, and a storm surge warning is in effect for certain areas. The governors of North Carolina, Virginia, and Maryland have declared a state of emergency, with schools closing early and weekend events being canceled.
“We are expecting an extended period of strong winds, heavy rainfall, and elevated tides,” said Maryland Gov. Wes Moore.
Residents are taking precautions, such as Nancy Shoemaker and her husband Bob, who picked up sandbags to protect their waterfront home in Annapolis, Maryland. They experienced significant flooding last year and hope to avoid a repeat.
A storm surge warning is in effect from Beaufort Inlet, North Carolina, to Chincoteague, Virginia, and a tropical storm warning has been issued from Cape Fear, North Carolina, to Fenwick Island, Delaware.
The impact of Ophelia is already being felt, with water taxis in Annapolis suspending service and the Washington Nationals baseball team postponing their game. Michael Brennan, director of the National Hurricane Center, explains that it is not uncommon for tropical storms or hurricanes to form off the East Coast during this peak hurricane season.
North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper and Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin have both declared states of emergency to expedite preparations and response efforts. Residents are urged to stay informed and prepare emergency kits.
Meanwhile, Hurricane Nigel has been downgraded to a post-tropical cyclone, with no coastal watches or warnings in effect.
How can individuals, communities, and governments prioritize resilience measures to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events like Tropical Storm Ophelia
Ff All Warnings
9/20/2023 9/21/2023 Tropical Storm Ophelia developed earlier this week in the Atlantic Ocean and has steadily gained strength as it moves westward. The storm is currently located about 375 miles southeast of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina. It is expected to continue moving northwestward and make landfall on the North Carolina coast on Saturday morning. The National Hurricane Center has issued a hurricane watch and a tropical storm warning for parts of eastern North Carolina. Residents in the affected areas are urged to take necessary precautions and prepare for potential impacts from the storm. In addition to strong winds, Ophelia is also forecasted to bring heavy rain to the region. Up to 7 inches of rainfall is expected in some areas of North Carolina and southeast Virginia. This could lead to flash flooding and potential road closures, so residents are advised to stay updated on the weather conditions and follow any evacuation orders or advisories issued by local authorities. Coastal areas may also experience storm surge, which can result in significant coastal flooding and erosion. Residents living in low-lying areas or near the coast should be prepared for the possibility of flooding and take necessary measures to protect their homes and property. The impacts of Tropical Storm Ophelia are not limited to the coast, as the storm is expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds to the mid-Atlantic region. This could affect areas as far inland as central North Carolina and parts of Virginia. Power outages, downed trees, and localized flooding are all possible consequences of the storm’s passage. Officials are closely monitoring the storm’s progress and providing regular updates and guidance to residents. It is important for individuals and communities to stay informed, have emergency plans in place, and follow any instructions from local authorities. Tropical Storm Ophelia serves as a reminder of the ongoing hurricane season and the importance of preparedness. As climate change continues to contribute to the intensification of storms, it is crucial for individuals, communities, and governments to prioritize resilience measures. This includes investing in infrastructure improvements, implementing effective disaster response plans, and promoting sustainable practices that mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events. As Tropical Storm Ophelia approaches the North Carolina coast, it is essential for residents to stay vigilant, stay informed, and prioritize safety. By taking the necessary precautions and working together, communities can minimize the potential risks and ensure a prompt recovery from the storm’s impacts.Flooding in Queens and Brooklyn After Heavy Rain Hits New York City
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