Hurricane Oscar has developed off the coast of the Bahamas, classified as a Category 1 storm with maximum sustained winds of 85 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center. The hurricane is described as “compact but powerful” and has led to hurricane warnings for the southeastern Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands.
As of the 8 p.m. ET update, Oscar was situated about 35 miles west-southwest of Grand Turk Island and approximately 400 miles east of Camaguey, Cuba. Meteorologists expect the storm to intensify slightly overnight before gradually weakening on Sunday night into Monday.
Additionally, hurricane watches have been issued in Cuba, specifically for the provinces of Guantanamo, Holguin, and Las Tunas.
The National Hurricane Center advised that the Turks and Caicos Islands should prepare for hurricane conditions on Saturday night. The report indicated that hurricane conditions were already likely affecting parts of the islands, with impacts expected to spread to the Bahamas shortly.
Rainfall forecasts suggest the Turks and Caicos and southeastern Bahamas could receive between 2 to 4 inches, with localized areas experiencing up to 6 inches. In eastern Cuba, rainfall could reach 4 to 6 inches, with isolated locations potentially seeing up to 8 inches.
A storm surge of 2 to 4 feet is also predicted for the Turks and Caicos, which could lead to significant coastal flooding. Minor coastal flooding is possible along Cuba’s northern shores as well. Preparations are crucial as the region braces for the effects of Hurricane Oscar.
Credit: NBC News
