Humberto, Imelda Amplify East Coast Hazards

Two Atlantic systems — Hurricane Humberto, which briefly reached Category 5 and is now a strong Category 4, and Tropical Depression Nine (forecast to become Tropical Storm Imelda and potentially a hurricane) — are expected to remain largely offshore but will amplify coastal hazards along the U.S. Southeast this week. Humberto is forecast to pass west of Bermuda and then turn out to sea, though its large circulation will drive long-period swells, dangerous rip currents and large breaking waves along much of the East Coast. Imelda is already affecting the Bahamas (about 4–8 inches of rain and a possible 1–3 feet of storm surge) and is forecast to bring 1–6 inches of rain, gusty onshore winds and minor coastal flooding to portions of Florida through the Carolinas. Peak surf and rip-current impacts are expected early to midweek, with potential beach erosion, overwash and localized flash/urban flooding where heavier rains occur. Local emergency officials are monitoring conditions (no evacuations planned in some areas), and the NHC urges residents from Florida through the Carolinas to secure property and closely monitor forecasts.