Although Tropical Storm Oscar is losing strength, its slow movement means it remains over Cuban territory, resulting in persistent heavy rainfall even as its winds have weakened. According to the latest update from the National Hurricane Center (NHC), Oscar's maximum sustained winds have decreased to 40 mph (65 km/h). The storm is now drifting west-northwest at 3 mph (6 km/h), slightly faster than the 2.5 mph (4 km/h) speed recorded earlier this Monday.
As of 11 a.m. local time, Oscar's eye was positioned approximately 80 miles (125 km) west of Punta de Maisí and only 15 miles (25 km) west-northwest of the city of Guantánamo. The principal threat at this moment is the significant rainfall.
Heavy Rainfall and Flooding Threats
Rainfall accumulations of 7 to 14 inches, with isolated areas receiving up to 20 inches, are anticipated in eastern Cuba through Wednesday, particularly impacting the Sierra Maestra region. This is expected to trigger flash floods and landslides. In Guantánamo province alone, over 10 inches of rain have already been recorded.
The tropical storm watch for the northern coast of Camagüey province has been lifted. However, a tropical storm warning remains in effect for the northern coasts of Las Tunas, Holguín, and Guantánamo extending to Punta de Maisí, as well as the southern coast of Guantánamo. The central Bahamas is under a tropical storm alert.
Future Path and Intensification Risks
The NHC forecasts that Oscar will continue its path over eastern Cuba this afternoon, moving towards the northern coast later today or tonight, and approaching the southeastern and central Bahamas by Tuesday. Although sustained winds have decreased, there is a possibility of slight intensification as it travels over open waters. Tropical storm-force gusts are currently extending up to 45 miles (75 kilometers) from the storm's center.