07 Oct 2018 | 03:33 AM UTC
Mexico/Cuba: Tropical storm set to affect western Cuba, Yucatan coast Oct. 6
A tropical depression expected to form October 6 in western Caribbean; tropical storm warnings issued for Pinar del Rio and Isla de la Juventud and tropical storm watch for Quintana Roo; heavy rain and flash flooding possible
Event
A low-pressure system is expected to consolidate into a tropical depression the evening (local time) of Saturday, October 6, and move north toward Mexico's Yucatan peninsula and western Cuba. It is forecast to become a tropical storm by Sunday evening, October 7. Mexico issued a tropical storm watch for Quintana Roo, from Tulum to Cabo Catoche, and the Cuban government issued a tropical storm warning for Pinar del Rio and Isla de la Juventud. The system should move north into the Gulf of Mexico by Monday, October 8, before affecting the US Gulf Coast beginning Tuesday, October 9.
Strong winds and heavy rain is forecast, with an estimated (5-10 cm) 2-4 in of rain in the Yucatan peninsula, Belize, and northern Honduras and 7.6-17.8 cm (3-7 in) in western Cuba, with up to 30 cm (12 in) in certain areas. Flash flooding and associated transportation delays are possible.
Context
Tropical depressions and storms are common in the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea from May through November.
Advice
Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, adhere to instructions (e.g. evacuation notices) issued by local authorities, and anticipate flooding, transportation disruptions, and telecommunication and electricity disruptions.
