A Deluge Descends on the Northeast as Post-tropical Cyclone Ophelia Strikes
Post-tropical cyclone Ophelia, though downgraded, has unleashed heavy rain across the Northeast, raising concerns about flash flooding and power outages. Here’s what you need to know:
- Impact on Mid-Atlantic Coast
As Ophelia transitioned into a post-tropical cyclone, it retained its capacity to bring heavy rainfall. From Washington, D.C., to New York, the Mid-Atlantic coast remains under threat of flash flooding. The National Hurricane Center’s final advisory from 5 a.m. ET Sunday warns of rainfall ranging from 1 to 3 inches in certain areas.
- Continued Danger: Surf and Rip Currents
Ophelia’s swells continue to generate life-threatening surf and rip current conditions along the East Coast. Beachgoers and mariners must exercise caution as these hazardous conditions persist.
- Tropical Storm Philippe Looms
While Ophelia weakens, another weather system is on the horizon. Tropical Storm Philippe is forming in the Atlantic, 1,225 miles from the Cabo Verde Islands, with maximum winds of 50 mph as of Sunday at 5 p.m. ET. While no watches or warnings have been issued yet, it’s a reminder of the active hurricane season.
- Downgraded, but Coastal Threat Persists
Ophelia’s downgrade to a post-tropical cyclone on Saturday night didn’t signal the end of concerns. Coastal flooding remains a threat in parts of the Chesapeake Bay on Sunday. Additionally, heavy rain continues to pose a risk of flash flooding from Virginia to New Jersey, according to the hurricane center.
- Climate Change Amplifying Flooding
It’s worth noting that the increasing frequency and severity of floods in the U.S. can be attributed to more extreme precipitation and sea level rise linked to climate change.
- Power Outages and State of Emergency
The impact of Ophelia is evident in power outages, with nearly 8,000 customers in Maryland and 4,700 customers in Pennsylvania affected. On Friday, Maryland, North Carolina, and Virginia declared a state of emergency, recognizing the need for preparedness in the face of extreme weather events.
- Landfall and Record Rainfall
Ophelia made landfall near Emerald Isle, N.C. with maximum winds of 70 mph. As it moved through central North Carolina, it brought downed trees and power outages due to strong winds. The region also experienced record-breaking rainfall, with Raleigh receiving over 3 inches of rain, breaking a century-old record. Fuquay-Varina, just south of Raleigh, saw nearly 5 inches of rainfall. Parts of central and southern Virginia also received substantial rainfall, ranging from 3 to 5 inches.
- Coastal Flood Advisory
A coastal flood advisory was issued for the Delaware beaches until 9 p.m. ET, with expectations of over a foot of rising water near shorelines and tidal waterways.
Post-tropical cyclone Ophelia unleashes heavy rain across Northeast, serving as a stark reminder of the unpredictable and impactful nature of weather systems in our changing climate. Stay informed, stay safe, and be prepared for the challenges that such storms bring.
Preparedness and Response: Dealing with Post-Tropical Cyclone Challenges
What is Tropical Storm Ophelia?
Tropical Storm Ophelia: What You Need to Know
Tropical Storm Ophelia emerged along the mid-Atlantic coast, with forecasts predicting a weekend marked by intense rain, storm surges, and gusty winds. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) announced these developments on Friday. Ophelia registered maximum sustained winds of 60 mph (95 km/h), as reported in the 2 PM advisory from the Miami-based center.
In summary:
- Name: Tropical Storm Ophelia
- Origin: Mid-Atlantic coast
- Expected Impacts: Heavy rain, storm surge, and strong winds over the weekend
- Wind Speed: Sustained winds at 60 mph (95 km/h)
Stay informed as we delve deeper into the impact of Ophelia on the region.
Will Tropical Storm Ophelia hit North Carolina & South Carolina?
Is Tropical Storm Ophelia Headed for North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia?
Tropical Storm Ophelia is making its way towards the states of North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. Emerging off the mid-Atlantic coast, Ophelia is poised to deliver a weekend characterized by substantial rainfall, storm surges, and blustery conditions, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC) announcement on Friday.
Key Points:
- Path: Ophelia is approaching North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia.
- Origin: It formed off the mid-Atlantic coast.
- Expected Conditions: Anticipated heavy rain, storm surge, and strong winds during the weekend.
Stay informed for the latest updates on Ophelia’s trajectory and the potential impact on these states.
Will Ophelia bring more rain & wind?
What Weather to Expect from Ophelia?
Ophelia, now categorized as a post-tropical cyclone, is set to deliver additional rain and wind as it continues its course along the Atlantic Coast of the United States. According to forecasters, this weather system made landfall near Emerald Isle, North Carolina on Saturday, unleashing torrential downpours and persistent winds. As it transitions, Ophelia remains a significant factor, promising further precipitation and blustery conditions along its path.
Will Ophelia cause flooding in New England?
Is Flooding Expected in New England due to Ophelia?
As Ophelia makes its north-northeastern journey with a gradual weakening trend, the risk of heavy rainfall-induced flooding looms large. The National Hurricane Center (NOAA), in its final advisory on the storm, warned that a significant area spanning from the Mid-Atlantic to southern New England is at risk of flooding due to the persistent heavy rainfall associated with Ophelia’s path.
Did hurricane Ophelia hit New York?
The remnants of Tropical Storm Ophelia, combined with a mid-latitude system approaching from the west, converged during a period of heightened storm activity in the Atlantic Ocean. This unique atmospheric confluence resulted in a lingering weather system that affected New York for an extended 12-hour duration.
Was Ophelia a cyclone?
Ophelia, originally a tropical storm, underwent a transition and was subsequently downgraded to a post-tropical cyclone. On Saturday, this cyclone brought destructive high winds, resulting in power outages affecting thousands, accompanied by heavy rainfall and storm surges that inundated roadways in various areas of the Mid-Atlantic.
