Two tropical systems off the Carolina coast could dramatically shift paths next week due to a rare weather phenomenon called the Fujiwhara effect.
As of the latest advisory from the National Hurricane Center, Tropical Storm Humberto has formed, while a nearby system, Invest 97L, is likely to be named Imelda soon. If both systems move within 900 miles of each other, they could begin rotating around a common center — a rare phenomenon that can send one storm surging toward land while the other is flung out to sea.
Potential Impacts for the Carolinas
-
If Humberto dominates, Invest 97L could veer toward Bermuda.
-
If Invest 97L takes over, Humberto may be flung west toward North Carolina.
Forecasters say a powerful cold front in the Atlantic could also influence the systems’ movements, making predictions challenging.
Although neither system is currently forecast to make landfall, conditions could change rapidly. The Carolinas may see impacts early next week depending on how the storms interact.
Residents are urged to monitor updates from the National Hurricane Center and local emergency officials as the storms evolve.
Officials are also recommending that all North Carolina residents prepare for possible power outages from hurricane damage. The following emergency items are suggested for all homes in our our state;
- Car charger for cell phones and other devices
- Clean drinking water (recommended 1 gallon per person per day, minimum three days)
- Flashlights
- Batteries: Extra batteries for all of your devices
- Weather radio/clock
- Non-perishable food
- First aid kit
