As of October 19, 2024, two tropical storms, Oscar and Nadine, are making their presence felt across the Caribbean and Central America, bringing heavy rainfall, strong winds, and localized flooding. While both storms are expected to cause significant weather in their respective regions, neither system is currently forecast to impact Florida.
Tropical Storm Oscar has formed near the Turks and Caicos Islands with sustained winds of 35 knots (40 mph). Satellite imagery shows that the storm is becoming more organized, with a well-defined center of circulation. Oscar is moving westward at 11 knots (13 mph) and is expected to bring tropical storm conditions to the southeastern Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, and eastern Cuba over the next 24 hours.
The storm is projected to slow down near Cuba as a trough begins to influence its movement. Oscar may strengthen slightly, with winds peaking at 45 knots (52 mph), but increasing wind shear and the interaction with land are expected to limit further intensification. By midweek, it is likely that Oscar will be absorbed by a larger weather system.
Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Nadine is nearing landfall near Belize City. Currently moving across Turneffe Atoll, Nadine is expected to make landfall on the mainland within the hour. The storm has sustained winds of 45 knots (52 mph) and is moving westward at 7 knots (8 mph). Nadine will continue moving through Belize, northern Guatemala, and southern Mexico throughout the day and into Sunday. After making landfall, it is expected to weaken quickly and dissipate by Sunday night. However, there is a high likelihood that its remnants will reorganize in the eastern Pacific next week.
Both storms are expected to bring significant rainfall to their respective regions, with the potential for flash flooding in areas such as the Turks and Caicos, the southeastern Bahamas, eastern Cuba, Belize, northern Guatemala, and southern Mexico. However, neither system poses an immediate threat to Florida, and residents there can rest easy for the time being. Nevertheless, those in affected areas should stay alert and prepared for potentially hazardous conditions.
