Ophelia almost a hurricane; Nesat battering China; Typhoon Nalgae a concern

The Atlantic

Tropical Storm Ophelia is close to hurricane intensity this afternoon with winds of 70mph. Ophelia is very well organized with an eye trying to pop out on satellite. Additional strengthening into a hurricane is anticipated tonight or tomorrow. Bermuda needs to be on standby because Tropical Storm Advisories may be issued tonight or tomorrow. Ophelia will make her closest approach to the island on Saturday. I would be ready in case Ophelia does make her way toward the island. By that time, Ophelia is forecasted to be a strong Category One hurricane with winds of 85mph. This could cause significant damage to the island. Flooding and Storm Surge will also be a threat as we traverse through time.

Tropical Storm Philippe is not looking very interesting. He is expected to strengthen slightly before moving westward into an unfavorable environment. Philippe is not a concern to land.

Models are starting to hint at some possible development in the Caribbean in early October. With forecasted steering patterns continue to become more certain, places like Cuba, Florida, and the Bahamas need to be aware of this as it could be similar to a storm like Hurricane Lili in 1996.

Tropical Storm Hilary weakening

Tropical Storm Hilary is now a minimal tropical storm and is expected to weaken to a remnant low tonight or tomorrow.

Nesat battering China; Nalgae to strike the Philippines soon

Typhoon Nesat is still a Category One hurricane between the little 'thumb' of China and Hainan Island. This was a bad situation for the China mainland as they got most of the heavy rain and wind. The area is also very prone to storm surge and it bends in a 'C' shape. Nesat should dump heavy rainfall in the amounts of probably 10 - 14 inches with local amounts possibly totaling 20 inches.

Typhoon Nalgae is strengthening as it nears the Philippines. Evacuations need to be taken immediately. Even though Nalgae is a small storm, it could still pack quite a punch. Nalgae is forecasted to make landfall as a major typhoon with winds equivalent to Category 3 force. Heavy rainfall will be an issue as well as wind damage to buildings and homes. Power outages is always a concern.

I'll have an update once the 5pm advisories come out.

Matt