Oscar Strikes Bahamas, Sets Sights on Cuba
Hurricane Oscar made a powerful landfall in the Bahamas this morning, bringing torrential rain, high winds, and storm surges. The Category 3 storm is now battering Cuba to the west as forecasters there warn of flooding and wind damage and evacuation orders in areas that are hit.
Devastation in the Bahamas, Cuba Prepares for Impact
The Bahamas experienced Oscar’s landfall early today, with the system displaying steady winds of 120 mph (193 km/h) and gusts above 140 mph (225 km/h). Among the islands that have reported records, there are instances of coastal flooding, uprooted trees and structural damage to homes and businesses. Indeed, activities at Nassau International Airport were temporarily closed as the government urged residents to stay indoors until the conditions improve.
The Bahamas Emergency Management Agency has launched rescues, although communication in some areas is out. Officials will continue to assess the damage as the storm reaches the northern coast of Cuba, where further devastation is anticipated.
Storm’s Path and Warnings for Cuba
No signs of weakening present themselves as Oscar approaches Cuba. The Cuban Meteorological Institute issued hurricane warnings for Pinar del Río and Havana with storm surges, flash floods, and winds reaching a speed of 115 mph (185 km/h). Mandatory evacuations have begun along the coastal areas, which have also set up shelters ahead of Oscar’s landfall.
The meteorologists predict that the storm will actually hit land within the next 24 hours in Cuba. Because the storm will make that swift move westward, the forecast now requires complete updates with respect to the current advisories for the residents.
A Dangerous Storm Threatens the Region
Hurricane Oscar is not over yet, and Cuba is bracing for extreme conditions in the hours ahead. As far as mitigation damage and keeping the residents safe, the authorities had to work hard, but the strength of the storm stands as an important threat to everyone involved.
As Oscar cuts across the Caribbean, forecasters are calling for those in its path to prepare for the worst. Both the Bahamas and Cuba have critical hours ahead with safety efforts paramount as the region dukes it out with yet another major storm.
