03 Oct 2021 | 03:35 AM UTC
North Atlantic Ocean: Hurricane Sam tracking northeastwards into the North Atlantic Ocean Oct. 2 /update 4
Hurricane Sam tracking northeastwards in the North Atlantic Ocean Oct. 2. No further landfalls forecast.
Event
Hurricane Sam is gradually weakening as it tracks northeastwards in the North Atlantic Ocean Oct. 2. As of 23:00 AST, the storm's center of circulation was approximately 840 km (520 miles) northeast of Bermuda and 1190 km (740 miles) south-southwest of Cape Race, Newfoundland, Canada. Forecast models indicate the system will weaken through Oct. 7 as it tracks across the North Atlantic Ocean.
Sam is likely to continue tracking northeastward while weakening into a Category 2 hurricane through early Oct. 4 before transitioning into a post-tropical cyclone with Category 1 hurricane strength winds as it passes well east of Newfoundland, Canada, later in the day. The storm is then forecast to track generally north-northeastwards towards Iceland while weakening into a post-tropical cyclone with tropical storm strength winds through Oct. 7. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and significant changes could occur in the coming days.
Government Advisories
As of 23:00 AST Oct. 2, no watches or warnings in relation to the system have been issued. Officials are likely to issue new warnings and/or watches in response to the developing system if the system approaches land.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities and urban areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Flooding could trigger flash floods and mudslides, isolating some communities for several days.
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. Sam could also produce damaging wind gusts, resulting in power outages due to fallen trees and toppled utility lines.
Transport
Inclement weather associated with the storm could trigger localized business, transport, and utility disruptions. Floodwaters and debris flows may 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, while strong winds will pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. 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 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 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 medications in a waterproof container. 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 days.
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.
