29 Aug 2023 | 01:11 AM UTC
North Atlantic Ocean: Hurricane Franklin tracking northward toward Bermuda late Aug. 28 /update 6
Hurricane Franklin tracking northward in the North Atlantic Ocean late Aug. 28. Close approach to Bermuda early Aug. 30.
Event
Hurricane Franklin is tracking northward in the North Atlantic Ocean, towards Bermuda, late Aug. 28. As of 20:00 EDT, the system's center of circulation was approximately 710 km (440 miles) west-southwest of Bermuda.
Forecast models indicate that the storm will strengthen as it tracks northeastward and makes a close approach to Bermuda early Aug. 30, passing northwest of the island before weakening into a Category 1 hurricane as it tracks northeastward away from Bermuda through Aug. 31. Franklin is forecast to make a close approach to Newfoundland Island, Canada, passing southeast of the island, early Sept. 1 before weakening into a tropical storm as it tracks northeastward away from the island Sept. 2. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and significant changes could occur over the coming days.
As of late Aug. 28, authorities had issued the following coastal watches and warnings:
Tropical Storm Watch: Bermuda
Authorities will likely issue new warnings and update existing advisories throughout the system's progression in the coming hours and days.
Life-threatening surf and rip currents generated by Franklin are affecting Bermuda and the coast of the southeast US and are forecast to spread northward along the east coast of the US and Atlantic Canada over the coming days. Tropical storm conditions are possible in Bermuda by early Aug. 30.
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 regional airports and temporary closures of ports are also possible. Stagnant pools of water during and after flooding may increase the incidence of insect- and waterborne diseases, such as dengue fever, cholera, and malaria. Exposure to raw sewage and other hazardous materials mixed with floodwaters poses a serious health threat.
Advice
Activate contingency plans in areas where officials forecast tropical storm 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 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 in areas in the path of the storm, 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 in some locations.
