08 Oct 2017 | 02:03 PM UTC
United States: Tropical Storm Nate weakens, flooding continues Oct. 8 /update 2
Hurricane Nate downgraded to Tropical Storm as it weakens on October 8; storm surge flooding and heavy rainfall continues
Event
Hurricane Nate has been degraded to a Tropical Storm as it rapidly weakens on Sunday, October 8. Nate made landfall near the mouth of the Mississippi River in south-east Louisiana as a category one storm at around 19:00 (local time) on Saturday with winds of 137 kph (85 mph). Though significantly weakened, Nate continues to create potentially deadly storm surge flooding, and a warning remains in effect from Pointe a la Hache (Louisiana) to the Okaloosa-Walton county line (Florida). Tropical storm conditions, including flooding, heavy rainfall and violent winds are expected inland as Nate tracks north east across southeastern United States; subsequent flooding, landslides, travel disruptions, power outages, and telecommunication problems are likely. As of 8.46 am (local time) on Sunday, Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) remains open, but with some disruption to travel and cancellations.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has warned that Nate will bring rainfall of 7.6 – 15.2 cm (3 – 6 in), with localized highs of up to 25.5 cm (10 in), to areas east of the Mississippi River, from the central Gulf Coast through into the Deep South, Eastern Tennessee Valley and southern Appalachians through into Monday, October 9. Heavy rain is also expected across the Ohio Valley and central Appalachians from Sunday into Monday, with a heightened risk of flash flooding.
Context
The deadly storm has already dropped massive amounts of rain - up to 75 cm (30 in) in some areas - over parts of Central America, leading to deadly floods and landslides. Significant damage and dozens of deaths and disappearances have been reported.
The Atlantic Hurricane Season officially runs from June 1 to November 30, with a peak of storms typically observed in late August and September. This year’s season has been particularly catastrophic, with several powerful storms - hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria - striking the Caribbean and Gulf regions.
Advice
Individuals in the above areas are advised to closely
monitor local weather forecasts and updates via the US National
Hurricane Centre. Adhere to any advice issued by regional authorities. In the event of flooding, keep in mind that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult.
