The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has announced the formation of the fourth tropical depression of the season, situated over Cuba. Tropical Depression Four has developed swiftly and is expected to bring adverse weather conditions to the region, including the Isle of Youth.
Tropical storm conditions with sustained winds up to 35 mph (55 km/h) and stronger gusts are forecasted. The depression is expected to produce rainfall accumulations between 6 to 10 inches, with maximum totals possibly reaching up to 15 inches in some areas. These rains could trigger flash floods and landslides, particularly in mountainous and urban areas with poor drainage.
The depression is moving west-northwest at a speed of 14 mph (22 km/h). It is predicted to cross western Cuba before emerging over the Gulf of Mexico, where it could intensify further. In its latest update, the National Institute of Meteorology of Cuba (INSMET) indicated that "cloudiness with showers, rain, and thunderstorms will prevail over western and central Cuba."
"The rains could become heavy and intense in some locations. Strong wind gusts and even severe local storms cannot be ruled out in areas with showers and thunderstorms," INSMET warned. The agency also noted that Tropical Depression Four "could rapidly intensify to become Tropical Storm 'Debbie,' posing a threat to the eastern coast of Florida and the northern part of the state in the United States."
Local authorities have issued warnings for the affected areas and recommend that residents stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect lives and property. Coastal communities should prepare for storm surges and dangerous waves. It is also advised to avoid traveling in flooded areas and secure loose objects that may be projected by strong winds.
The tropical depression is expected to become a tropical storm once it reaches the Gulf of Mexico. The NHC has issued a hurricane watch for parts of central-west Florida and the Big Bend region, where hurricane conditions are possible late Sunday. Tropical storm conditions are anticipated further south along Florida's west coast, including the Tampa Bay area and Dry Tortugas, where tropical storm warnings are in effect.
The agency also warned of potentially deadly flooding due to storm surges along parts of Florida's west coast, from Bonita Beach to the Aucilla River, including Tampa Bay and Charlotte Harbor, where a storm surge warning is in effect. Storm surge impacts, strong winds, and heavy rains are also possible in other parts of Florida and along the southeastern coast of the United States, from Georgia to North Carolina, through mid-next week.
Residents in the region should follow local authorities' directives and stay tuned to weather bulletins, the NHC advised, noting that it will continue to monitor the situation and issue periodic updates.
This Friday, the axis of tropical wave #25, designated as investigation area 97L, brought rain and thunderstorms to eastern Cuba. The first intense rains occurred in the province of Guantánamo, detailed Cuban meteorologist Bryam Pérez Valdés on social media.
FAQs on Tropical Depression Over Cuba
Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers regarding the tropical depression forming over Cuba and its potential impacts.
What areas are expected to be most affected by Tropical Depression Four?
Western and central Cuba, including the Isle of Youth, are expected to experience the most significant impacts, with heavy rain, strong winds, and potential flooding.
How strong are the winds expected to be?
Sustained winds are forecasted to reach up to 35 mph (55 km/h) with stronger gusts possible.
What precautions should residents take?
Residents should stay informed, secure loose objects, avoid traveling in flooded areas, and follow local authorities' directives to protect lives and property.