Thursday, September 1, 2011

A match made In Heck - Katia And Lee...


No sooner had Hurricane Irene blown herself out over Canada, that all eyes were turned towards the Atlantic Basin just off the coast of Africa, or the northern Gulf Of Mexico, depending on where your particular interests happened to lie. 

Hurricane Katia formed off the African coast right about the time that Irene was breathing her last, and tropical storm Lee has begun to take form in the Gulf.  Both storms could potentially threaten the US mainland over the next week or so.

It’s the peak of Hurricane Season 2011, and so far the year has not disappointed.  Katia is poised to become the second major hurricane of the season,  moving on a west-northwest track over the next 5 days.  Most computer models predict that she will simply curve back out to sea before striking the US, but forecasters admit they will need another 48 hours or so to be more certain. 

Katia become the second hurricane of the season on Wednesday night. Maximum sustained winds were 75 mph as of the writing of this article, with strengthening likely. Katia is moving at the base of a subtropical ridge to the north, and the initial motion to the WNW is expected to continue at least through 3 to 5 days.

Behind Katia, several more waves are beginning to form, which could become Maria and Nate respectively.  Of course it is far too early with either situation to predict their course, although weather patterns indicate that they may take a slightly more southern path.

Another tropical depression has formed in the Gulf of Mexico, predicted to become Tropical Storm Lee, and could dump heavy rainfall on the Gulf Coast states by the weekend.  This problem becomes aggravated by the fact that Labor Day weekend is typically a big draw for the beaches along the Gulf. 

Most computer models do not indicate a direct strike on the mainland by Lee, but rather a sideswipe, re-emerging into the Gulf, strengthening, and then making a second landfall.  These same simulations also have Lee eventually pulling up through the Appalachians, which could bring serious flooding issues for the southeast.

At this time of year, things are extremely volatile when it comes to weather.  People should be aware of what is happening around them and take note of rapidly changing weather conditions.  If a storm ends up heading in your direction, be prepared to leave immediately.  Secure your home, shutter or board up doors and windows, and have evacuation bags packed with enough clothing, food, and other provisions to support an extended stay away from home.

Water Damage Local.com is a nationwide network of IICRC certified professionals, available 24/7, and able to handle even the most severe flood damage and water restoration cases.  Call today for a free estimate or phone consultation.

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