Bermuda: Tropical Storm Alex generates in Atlantic Ocean, quickly tracking east-northeastward as of late June 5 /update 4

Event

Tropical Storm Alex, which generated in the Atlantic Ocean early June 5 from the remnants of Hurricane Agatha, is quickly tracking east-northeastward toward Bermuda late June 5. As of 18:00 ADT, the system's center of circulation was approximately 640 km (395 miles) west of Bermuda. Forecast models indicate that the storm will weaken as the center of the system passes north of Bermuda June 6. Alex is then likely to continue to weaken and transition into a post-tropical cyclone as it travels further east-northeastward in the Atlantic Ocean before dissipating by around 15:00 ADT June 9. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and significant changes could occur in the coming days.

As of late June 5, the following warnings are in place:

• Tropical Storm Warning: Bermuda

The Bermuda Weather Service has warned that weather conditions are forecast to worsen from late June 5 as Alex advances toward the territory from the west-southwest. Tropical storm-force winds, heavy rainfall totaling 2.5-5 cm (1-2 inches), and rough seas are likely to affect Bermuda overnight June 5-6 through much of June 6 before weather conditions improve June 7.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and those with easily overwhelmed drainage systems. If weather conditions prove hazardous, localized evacuations, flash flooding, and landslides are possible.

The inclement weather could trigger localized business, transport, and utility disruptions and render some bridges or roadways impassable. Flight disruptions at L.F. Wade International Airport (BDA) and temporary closures of ports are also possible. Exposure to raw sewage and other hazardous materials mixed with floodwaters poses a serious health threat.

Context

Before gaining tropical storm strength, the system hit Cuba as Potential Tropical Cyclone One, bringing heavy rainfall as well as consequent flash flooding and landslides. The storm left at least three people dead and displaced more than 4,000 others as dozens of homes were damaged in Havana and elsewhere. The system also left thousands of people without power in La Habana, Pinar del Rio, and Mayabeque provinces.

Potential Tropical Cyclone One also hit South Florida, dumping torrential rain that led to street flooding in multiple areas. Miami-Dade County was the worst-hit location in the region. Many vehicles were left stranded amid the flooding late June 3 into June 4, requiring authorities to tow them from inundated thoroughfares. While officials rescued some individuals from the deluge, no serious injuries were reported in South Florida in connection with the storm. Additionally, hundreds of flights across South Florida were canceled June 3-4, including flights at Miami International Airport (MIA) and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL).

Advice

Activate contingency plans in Bermuda. 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 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.

Plan accordingly for protracted commercial, transport, and logistics disruptions, especially if vital infrastructure is damaged. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where flooding has occurred. Confirm flights before checking out of hotels or driving to the airport; clearing passenger backlogs may take several days.

Resources

Bermuda Weather Service
US National Hurricane Center
National Weather Service