Hurricane Imelda is set to impact Bermuda shortly after Hurricane Humberto passed the islands on Tuesday. Forecasters warn that both storms will lead to heightened surf, rip currents, and potential coastal flooding along the East Coast over the next few days.
As Imelda approaches, winds in Bermuda are already strong, with gusts recorded at the National Museum of Bermuda reaching up to 58 mph. Sustained winds ranging from 40 to 50 mph are expected throughout the island. In response to the impending storm, the Government of Bermuda has announced the closure of L.F. Wade International Airport, the Causeway linking St. David’s Island to Hamilton Parish, and all public schools for safety.
A hurricane warning is in effect, indicating that hurricane-force conditions are anticipated to begin tonight. Imelda, moving quickly eastward, is projected to strike Bermuda at nearly Category 2 intensity later today, bringing an additional 2 to 4 inches of rain on top of the precipitation already seen from Humberto’s outer bands. Storm surge flooding and large, damaging waves are also expected.
While Humberto, which is positioned about 280 miles north of Bermuda, is fizzling out and will merge with a cold front, remnants of its energy are anticipated to catalyze a strong storm in the North Atlantic, set to hit Ireland, the U.K., and parts of Western Europe by the weekend, likely resulting in significant winds and rain.
On the U.S. East Coast, high surf and dangerous rip currents will continue as a lingering effect from both hurricanes, with Coastal Carolina areas experiencing minor flooding at high tides. Observers have already noted some homes in Buxton, North Carolina, being compromised.
Meteorologists have noted the significant interaction between Imelda and Humberto, marking the closest proximity of two hurricanes in the Atlantic Basin in at least 59 years. Humberto’s presence has influenced Imelda’s projected path, steering it eastward and preventing a direct landfall on the Southeast coast.
Tragically, both storms have already led to devastating rainfall and flooding in the Caribbean. The impacts from Humberto and Imelda resulted in fatalities and significant damage, particularly in Puerto Rico, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic.
As Hurricane Imelda approaches its peak, officials and residents remain vigilant. Emergency preparedness is crucial as the island braces for its arrival, underscoring the importance of effective communication and community support amid natural disasters. The hope is for Bermuda to weather the storm with minimal devastation, showcasing resilience in the face of adversity.