A rare meteorological event may soon unfold in the Atlantic Ocean as Tropical Storm Humberto and a developing system, expected to be named Tropical Storm Imelda, move dangerously close to each other. Forecasters warn this interaction could trigger the Fujiwhara Effect, where two tropical cyclones rotate around one another and, in extreme cases, merge into a single, more powerful hurricane.
Humberto Gains Strength
Hurricane Tropical Storm Humberto formed over the Sargasso Sea earlier this week.
- The system is currently producing sustained winds of about 50 mph and is moving northwest at approximately 8 mph.
- Forecast models predict that Humberto could intensify into a Category 3 major hurricane early next week.
- While the storm is expected to stay offshore and avoid direct landfall in the United States, Bermuda is advised to closely monitor its path.
Developing Storm Could Become Imelda
Meanwhile, another disturbance known as Invest 94L is bringing heavy rainfall and gusty winds to Puerto Rico and nearby islands.
- Meteorologists say this system has a strong chance of strengthening into Tropical Storm Imelda within days.
- If it develops further, Imelda could approach the Southeast U.S. coastline, threatening Georgia and the Carolinas with flooding rain, damaging winds, and rough surf.
What Is the Fujiwhara Effect?
The Fujiwhara Effect is a rare atmospheric interaction that occurs when two cyclones come within about 900 miles of each other. The storms can:
- Orbit around a shared center before drifting apart.
- See the stronger storm absorb the weaker one.
- Or, in rare situations, merge into a super storm.
This phenomenon is more common in the western Pacific but rarely happens in the Atlantic.
Forecast: Low Risk of a Super Storm
Experts stress that a full Fujiwhara collision between Humberto and Imelda is unlikely.
- A powerful upper-level low and an advancing weather front are expected to steer Invest 94L northward, keeping it away from Humberto.
- This shift would reduce the risk of the two systems merging.
What Residents Should Know
- Humberto will likely remain well offshore, but its effects could still generate dangerous ocean swells.
- Imelda, if named, may impact the Southeast coast of the United States with heavy rain and wind hazards.
- Coastal communities are urged to stay alert as forecast models may shift.
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