Tropical Storm Oscar continues to impact eastern Cuba with heavy rainfall and the threat of flooding, although it is showing signs of weakening. Overnight, the storm’s center moved across the island, and radar imagery from Guantanamo Bay indicates a decline in its organization.
Despite the weakening trend, bands of deep convection are still bringing heavy rain to parts of Cuba. Tropical-storm-force winds were observed along both the southern and northern coasts of eastern Cuba. The storm’s initial wind speed has been reduced to 45 knots, reflecting the decrease in organization.
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Oscar is expected to turn northwestward and northward later today, eventually emerging off Cuba’s northern coast. Some forecast models suggest the center may reform near the coast. Regardless, Oscar is predicted to accelerate northeastward over the southeastern Bahamas and western Atlantic. Within a few days, it is likely to be absorbed by a developing non-tropical low-pressure system.
Further weakening is anticipated as Oscar moves over Cuba today. Increasing wind shear and dry air will likely limit any restrengthening before it merges with the non-tropical system.
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The primary threat from Oscar remains heavy rainfall and the potential for life-threatening flash flooding and mudslides in eastern Cuba. Tropical storm conditions are expected to continue in Cuba today and spread to the southeastern Bahamas tonight and Tuesday.
Residents in these areas should remain vigilant and prepared for potential flooding and tropical storm conditions.
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