Cuba: Storm Eta forecast to re-strengthen into Tropical Storm prior to landfall on November 8

Event

Former Hurricane Eta has re-emerged in the Caribbean Sea off the coast of Belize on Friday, November 6, and is forecast to strengthen into a Tropical Storm prior to making landfall on Sunday, November 8. The US National Hurricane Center (NHC) advisory as of 04:00 (EST) reports the storm immediately off the Belize coast and moving north at 8mph (13kph) with maximum sustained winds of 35mph (56kph). A turn to the northeast is expected later in the day with further strengthening over the coming days as the storm moves into warmer water.  

Context

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from late May through to the end of November, with activity typically peaking in late August and early September. Numerous tropical storms form in the Atlantic Ocean during this period, with most affecting the Caribbean, the Gulf of Mexico, and the east coast of the United States. Although communities in the region are generally well prepared for adverse weather conditions during the hurricane season, severe storms bring a significant risk of flooding and infrastructural damage.

Organized tropical activity tends to peak in August and September. Storms tend to flood sections of highways and cause dirt-based roads to become temporarily impassable. More organized systems, depending on intensity, can prove catastrophic in terms of tidal surge, wind damage, flooding, and mudslides.

Advice

Those in Cuba are advised to monitor local weather reports, avoid areas directly affected by flooding, confirm road conditions before setting out, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.