02 Nov 2024 | 03:58 PM UTC
Portugal: Subtropical Storm Patty tracking southeastward, just southwest of the Azores as of afternoon Nov. 2
Subtropical Storm Patty tracking southeastward, just southwest of Azores, Portugal, afternoon Nov. 2. Landfall over Sao Miguel Island Nov. 3
Subtropical Storm Patty is tracking southeastward across the North Atlantic Ocean just southwest of Flores Island in the Azores, Portugal, the afternoon of Nov. 2. As of 15:00 GMT, the storm's center of circulation was approximately 480 km (300 miles) west-northwest of the Azores.
Forecast models indicate that the system will weaken slightly as it tracks generally eastward, passing just south of Faial and Pico islands early Nov. 3, before making landfall over Sao Miguel Island around 12:00 Nov. 3. Patty is forecast to weaken into a tropical depression as it gradually turns to track northeastward away from the Azores and towards far eastern Spain through noon Nov. 5. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and changes could occur in the coming days.
As of the afternoon of Nov. 2, officials are maintaining the following warnings in connection with Oscar:
Tropical Storm Warning: All of the Azores.
Authorities may issue new warnings or update/rescind existing advisories throughout the system's progression in the coming hours and days.
Tropical storm conditions are expected in the Azores late Nov. 2-3. Patty is forecast to bring rainfall amounts of 2.5-5 cm (1-2 inches) across the Azores through Nov. 3. Swells generated by Patty will affect the Azores over the coming days; these swells are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions.
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and those with easily overwhelmed drainage systems. Localized evacuations, flash flooding, and landslides are possible if weather conditions prove hazardous.
The inclement weather could trigger localized business, transport, and utility disruptions and render some bridges or roadways impassable. Flight disruptions at airports in the region 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.
Activate contingency plans in areas where officials forecast tropical storm conditions. Heed all evacuation orders. 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 any 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.
