The Atlantic Ocean registers a new cyclonic activity with the advance of tropical storm Rafaelwhich keeps the southeast coast of the United States, and in particular Floridain a state of alert. Although until now It was not confirmed that Rafael will become a hurricaneits intensification is possible due to the warm conditions of the waters of the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico. The meteorological authorities warned about their possible impact and its effects on US territory.
The National Weather Service issued a storm warning for South Florida due to the possible arrival of RafaelNHC
Rafael formed in the central Atlantic, in a area conducive to cyclonic activity due to high water temperature and low atmospheric pressure. According to the National Hurricane Center (NHCfor its acronym in English), the system showed a rapid development during the last few dayswhich made it reach the category of tropical storm with sustained winds up to 100 km/h. This allowed him to quickly gain strength while It is moving towards the northwest at a speed of 28 km/h.
Rafael’s current trajectory indicates that will move towards the northwest, entering Caribbean waterswhere an increase in intensity is expected. Experts point out that if low pressure conditions and water temperatures remain high, Rafael could become a hurricane category 1 in the next 48 hours. In this case, the phenomenon would increase its destructive potential, by reaching speeds greater than 120 km/h.
Although it is still early to determine if Rafael will make landfall in Floridalocal authorities began to prepare for the possibility of strong winds, heavy rain and storm surge. The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a storm warning for South Florida and warned that residents should be prepared for Possible flooding and adverse weather conditions.
Rafael’s current trajectory shows a course toward the northwest, which could affect Florida in the coming daysNHC
The NHC explained that, if Rafael maintains his current trajectory, The phenomenon could approach the Florida peninsula in the next four or five days. In such a situation, torrential rains could cause flooding in coastal areas and strong gusts of wind could affect both infrastructure and electrical services.
Given the threat posed by storm Rafael, The Florida Emergency Preparedness Center urged the population to take precautionary measures. Among the recommendations they pointed out are:
Residents in flood-prone areas should monitor NHC reports and to local alerts. The authorities also suggested that people have a evacuation plan in case weather conditions worsen.
Rafael’s current trajectory shows a course toward the northwest, which could affect Florida in the coming daysNHC
Rafael’s passage through the Caribbean presents a complex scenario for the countries of the region and the southern United States. Sea surface temperatures remain around 29°C, a level that facilitates heat absorption and, therefore, strengthening of tropical storms and hurricanes. Likewise, the low wind shear in this area of the Atlantic It helps the cyclonic system to remain compact and stable.
Meteorological experts indicated that In the next 48 hours Rafael will cross through areas with high humidity contentwhich could increase its size and intensity. If these conditions are met, the phenomenon would gain strength and become a hurricane, with potentially greater impact for the areas in its path.
Floridaone of the states most exposed to cyclonic phenomena in the United States, recorded numerous hurricanes and tropical storms throughout its history. The south of this state in particular, given its geographical position, faces year after year the threat of hurricanes that cross the Caribbean and the Atlantic, as demonstrated by recent phenomena such as the destructive Helene and Milton.
The constant exposure to cyclones generated in the population a high degree of preparation and state authorities They tend to quickly activate emergency protocols. In this context, Florida citizens were once again called upon to take the necessary precautions and stay informed through official sources such as the NHC and the NWS.
