Tomas has regained tropical storm status with 45 mph winds and heavy rain. It's now located 250 miles S/SE of Kingston, Jamaica and is moving toward the north/northwest at 6 mph. A curve toward the northeast is expected in the next 24 hours, and this projected motion will bring Tomas right over the nation of Haiti. To make matters worse, Tomas could strengthen to a minimal hurricane by the time it makes landfall there. High winds, rain in excess of 5-12", and a significant storm surge could pummel the south and west coasts of Haiti. In fact, Haiti is already under a tropical storm warning and a hurricane watch. Haiti is still recovering from that major earthquake of 10 months ago, and is nowhere near prepared for a strong tropical storm or minimal hurricane. Haiti is a very mountainous nation, and is therefore prone to mudslides. Recent deforestation could make the mudslides even worse. --TS
No comments:
Post a Comment