Former hurricane Rafael has weakened to a high-end tropical storm with winds at 70 mph. It is moving west-northwest at 5 mph and will likely shift towards Mexico this weekend, with no significant impact on the U.S. The NHC is monitoring a low probability of development near the Leeward Islands.
As anticipated, former major hurricane Rafael has rapidly diminished in intensity, now categorized as a high-end tropical storm. Current assessments indicate maximum sustained winds have decreased to 70 mph, with a west-northwestward motion slowing to merely 5 mph. The comprehensive forecast remains largely unchanged, with expectations of further weakening and a significant shift towards Mexico anticipated by the weekend. There will likely be no significant impact on the United States, apart from potential rip currents along the coastline. Presently, Rafael’s coordinates are approximately 24.8N latitude and 89.9W longitude, which positions the storm about 240 miles north of Progreso, Mexico, and 460 miles east of the mouth of the Rio Grande. The minimum central pressure is reported to be 989 mb, equivalent to 29.21 inches of mercury. In addition to Rafael, the National Hurricane Center is closely observing a developing area of thunderstorms situated near the Leeward Islands, although it currently holds a low probability of development, assessed at merely 10%. Continuous monitoring will occur in the ensuing days for any potential changes.
Tropical storms and hurricanes are significant weather phenomena formed over warm ocean waters, posing risks of severe weather, including high winds, heavy rainfall, and coastal flooding. The National Hurricane Center regularly monitors these systems to track their development and project their paths, providing vital information for safety and preparedness. Understanding tropical storm dynamics, including their weakening and potential impacts, is crucial for residents and authorities in affected regions.
In conclusion, the transformation of hurricane Rafael into a tropical storm highlights the dynamic nature of weather systems in the tropics. With sustained winds now at 70 mph and a gradual shift toward Mexico expected, the storm presents minimal risk to the U.S. mainland. Observations of the area near the Leeward Islands will continue, though the probability of further development remains low at this time.
Original Source: www.alabamawx.com
