20 Aug 2021 | 10:05 AM UTC
North Atlantic Ocean: Tropical Storm Henri tracking northward in the North Atlantic Ocean early Aug. 20; weather warnings ongoing in places /update 5
Tropical Storm Henri tracking northward in North Atlantic Ocean early Aug 20. Landfall forecast near Rhode Island, US, Aug. 22.
Event
Tropical Storm Henri is tracking northward in the North Atlantic Ocean early Aug 20. As of 05:00 EDT, the storm's center of circulation was approximately 1,200 km (746 miles) south of New York City. Forecast models indicate the system will strengthen as it continues tracking parallel to the US east coast in the coming days. Landfall is forecast near Rhode Island, Aug. 22. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and significant changes could occur in the coming days.
Government Advisories
The following advisories are in effect as of 05:00 EDT, Aug. 20.
Storm Surge Watch: South Shore of Long Island from East Rockaway Inlet to Montauk, North Shore of Long Island from Kings Point to Montauk, Kings Point New York to Sagamore Beach Massachusetts, Nantucket, Martha's Vineyard, and Block Island.
Hurricane Watch: South Shore of Long Island from Fire Island Inlet to Montauk, North Shore of Long Island from Port Jefferson Harbor to Montauk, New Haven Connecticut to Sagamore Beach Massachusetts, Nantucket, Martha's Vineyard, and Block Island.
Tropical Storm Watch: West of Fire Island Inlet to East Rockaway Inlet New York, West of Port Jefferson Harbor New York, and West of New Haven Connecticut.
Officials are likely to update the advisories in the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
The storm may bring heavy rainfall at times, gusty winds, and rough seas. Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities and urban areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Torrential precipitation could trigger flash floods and mudslides.
Prolonged sea swells and storm surge generated by the system may result in coastal flooding. Persistent onshore flow could make it difficult for the surge to recede and for water levels to decrease in coastal river catchments. In addition to the potential heavy rain, flooding, and storm surge, the storm could produce damaging wind gusts, resulting in power outages due to fallen trees and toppled utility lines.
Transport
In addition to the immediate threat to personal safety, inclement weather associated with the storm could trigger localized business, transport, and utility disruptions. Floodwaters and debris flows could render some bridges or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Areal flooding in urban locations could also result in severe traffic congestion. Possible heavy rain and low visibility may trigger flight disruptions at regional airports.
Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding, could persist well after weather conditions have improved. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may exacerbate residual disruptions.
Advice
Activate contingency plans in areas where officials forecast adverse weather conditions. Heed any evacuation orders that may be issued. Use extreme caution in low-lying coastal areas and near streams, creeks, and other waterways due to the high potential for severe flooding and storm surge. Stockpile water, batteries, and other essentials in advance. Charge battery-powered devices when electricity is available; restrict the use of cellular phones to emergencies only. Power down mobile devices when not in use. Keep important documents and necessary medications in waterproof containers. Observe strict food and water precautions, as municipalities could issue boil-water advisories following flooding events. Take precautions against insect- and waterborne diseases in the coming weeks.
