Category 4 Humberto, Imelda Threaten U.S. Coasts

Two powerful Atlantic storms—Category 4 Hurricane Humberto and Tropical Storm Imelda—are generating large swells, high surf and life‑threatening rip currents along the U.S. East Coast, prompting NHC and NWS warnings from Florida to Massachusetts. Forecasts call for 4–8+ foot seas in parts of Florida and the Southeast and 6–8+ foot seas offshore in other zones, threatening significant beach erosion. Local officials are urging people to avoid the ocean, follow flag warnings and stay near lifeguards as rescues have already occurred and only very strong swimmers should enter the water. Jacksonville and Treasure Coast beaches are under hazardous conditions, including double red flags in places, even as some surfers plan to continue. Separately, the National Weather Service has issued a Gale Warning for Northern California coastal waters from Point St. George to Cape Mendocino with south winds 20–30 kt (gusts to 40 kt) and 6–9 ft seas, posing hazards to mariners and coastal activities.