Hurricane Imelda, formed on Tuesday off the southeastern U.S. coast, is moving toward Bermuda, where a hurricane watch is in effect. The storm, already causing dangerous waves and rip currents along the U.S. East Coast, is expected to reach the island on Wednesday with winds up to 100 mph. Authorities warn of flooding and extreme weather conditions.
High waves are impacting beaches from Florida to the U.S. Northeast, with at least one confirmed death. A 51-year-old man drowned in Florida after being swept away by a rip current. In Cuba, another death was reported due to a landslide caused by heavy rainfall.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) forecasts that Imelda may become a Category 2 hurricane, with winds reaching 100 mph, as it nears Bermuda. The island could see up to 4 inches of rain between Wednesday and Thursday.
- Main risks: Urban flooding, rip currents, and high waves.
- Affected areas: U.S. East Coast, Bahamas, and Bermuda.
- Safety measures: Schools in the Bahamas closed, and alerts are active.
Alerts and precautions in Bermuda
Bermuda is under a hurricane watch, with tropical storm conditions expected by Wednesday afternoon. The NHC predicts strong winds and rainfall that could cause significant flooding.
Local authorities urge residents to reinforce homes and avoid coastal areas.
Impacts on the U.S. coast
In Florida, high waves hit Melbourne Beach, as recorded by meteorologists. Rip currents remain a persistent risk for beachgoers.
Coastal flood alerts are in place from the Volusia/Brevard County line to the South Santee River in South Carolina.
Forecasts indicate 1 to 2 inches of rain in coastal North Carolina, with up to 4 inches in isolated areas.
Urban and flash flooding are expected in areas with onshore winds.
Effects in the Bahamas
On Monday, Imelda, then a tropical storm, caused flooding in Dundas Town, Bahamas. Streets were inundated due to torrential rain.
Catholic schools in the archipelago were closed for safety.
The Archdiocese of Nassau issued statements calling for public safety.
Residents were advised to avoid travel during heavy rainfall.
Hurricane intensification
Imelda, with sustained winds of 75 mph on Tuesday, is about 755 miles from Bermuda, moving at 7 mph. The NHC expects the storm to strengthen, potentially reaching Category 2 before hitting the island. Its path suggests a shift east-northeast, moving away from the Bahamas but still impacting the U.S. coast. Combined with Hurricane Humberto, also active in the Atlantic, it is worsening sea conditions and rip currents.
Recommended safety measures
To minimize risks, authorities emphasize the following:
- Avoid beaches due to rip currents.
- Protect properties against strong winds and rain.
- Monitor NHC updates and follow local alerts.
Reported deaths and damages
Imelda has already claimed lives. In Florida, a 51-year-old out-of-state man was swept away by a rip current and could not return to shore. In Cuba, a landslide in Santiago, triggered by heavy rain, caused a home to collapse, killing a 60-year-old man overnight.
