UNITED STATES: Tropical Storm Lee, currently swirling in the Atlantic Ocean, is raising alarm bells among meteorologists and the National Hurricane Center (NHC) as it shows signs of potential transformation into an “extremely dangerous major hurricane” by the upcoming weekend. The NHC has issued a stern warning as it closely monitors Lee’s trajectory.
The storm, which originated in the central tropical Atlantic and officially gained tropical storm status on September 5th, is currently positioned about 1,200 miles east of the northern Leeward Islands.
With winds reaching approximately 70 mph and a west-northwest movement of 14 mph, Lee is rapidly intensifying, prompting concerns among experts.
According to the NHC’s forecast on September 6th, Lee is expected to reach hurricane strength very soon and could escalate into a major hurricane within the next 48 hours.
Although continued strengthening is anticipated, the unpredictable nature of eyewall replacement cycles could lead to fluctuations in intensity over the weekend and early next week.
Lee’s path is projected to take it towards the Leeward Islands, encompassing the U.S. Virgin Islands and the region where the Atlantic meets the Caribbean Sea. This has stirred anxiety among residents and local authorities, who are preparing for the possibility of a significant hurricane impact.
Favorable environmental conditions, including ample moisture, low wind shear, and exceptionally warm waters along Lee’s projected route, are factors contributing to its development. However, meteorologists stress that it is not anticipated to affect the United States at this time, offering some respite to coastal communities.
If Lee attains wind speeds exceeding 74 mph, it will be officially categorized as a Category 1 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. Lee’s potential transformation into a major hurricane would make it the fourth such occurrence this season, following the paths of Don, Franklin, and Idalia.
Authorities and residents in vulnerable areas are advised to stay vigilant and closely monitor updates from the NHC as Lee continues its trajectory through the Atlantic.
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