Tropical Storm Fernand Shifts Course, No Immediate Threat to US & Canada – Breaking News
Miami, FL – August 25, 2023 – A collective sigh of relief is spreading along the Eastern Seaboard as Tropical Storm Fernand, the sixth named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season, is now projected to move away from the United States and Canada. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) confirmed Monday that Fernand poses no immediate risk to populated areas, offering a welcome respite after recent close calls.
Fernand’s Trajectory and Current Status
As of the latest NHC bulletin, Tropical Storm Fernand is located approximately 685 kilometers (425 miles) northeast of Bermuda. The storm is currently traveling northeast at a speed of 20 kilometers per hour (13 mph) and packing maximum sustained winds of 95 kilometers per hour (59 mph). While Fernand isn’t expected to intensify significantly today, forecasters predict a gradual weakening beginning Tuesday, with the storm likely becoming a post-tropical cyclone by Wednesday.
(Image: Projected path of Tropical Storm Fernand. Source: National Hurricane Center)
A Season of Activity: From Erin to Fernand
Fernand’s development comes just a week after Hurricane Erin, the first hurricane of the season, skirted the US coastline, prompting evacuations in parts of North Carolina. Erin’s journey began near Cabo Verde, Africa, tragically claiming seven lives, and continued with heavy rainfall and strong winds throughout the Caribbean. Even as it weakened, Erin brought cyclonic swells that authorities warned were life-threatening. Before Erin, Tropical Storms Andrea, Barry, Chantal, and Dexter also formed in the Atlantic, with Chantal making landfall in the US, sadly resulting in two fatalities in North Carolina in July.
Understanding the Atlantic Hurricane Season & Staying Prepared
The Atlantic hurricane season, which officially runs from June 1st to November 30th, is proving to be more active than usual. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) forecasts a “higher than normal” season, predicting between 13 and 18 tropical storms, with 5 to 9 potentially strengthening into hurricanes. This heightened activity underscores the importance of preparedness.
What You Can Do to Prepare: A Quick Guide
- Stay Informed: Regularly check updates from the National Hurricane Center (https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/) and your local weather authorities.
- Develop a Plan: Create a family emergency plan, including evacuation routes and communication strategies.
- Build a Kit: Assemble a disaster supply kit with essentials like water, non-perishable food, medications, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit.
- Secure Your Property: Trim trees, clear gutters, and secure loose outdoor objects.
The recent activity serves as a stark reminder that even storms that initially pose no direct threat can evolve rapidly. Staying vigilant and prepared is crucial for protecting lives and property. The science of hurricane forecasting is constantly improving, but nature remains unpredictable. Understanding the risks and taking proactive steps are the best defenses against the potential impacts of these powerful storms.
As Fernand continues its journey out to sea, attention remains focused on the broader Atlantic basin. Archyde.com will continue to provide up-to-the-minute coverage of the hurricane season, delivering the information you need to stay safe and informed. For more in-depth weather analysis and breaking news, explore our dedicated Weather Section.