Tropical Storm Fernand Forms southeast of Bermuda
New Tropical Storm Fernand Forms Southeast of Bermuda
A recently formed tropical storm, named Fernand, is located approximately 400 miles south-southeast of Bermuda and is expected to intensify as it moves northward over the weekend.
Satellite images and reconnaissance data indicate that Fernand has maximum sustained winds of around 40 mph, with stronger gusts. The storm’s current path is heading north, and it is forecasted to gain strength as it passes east of Bermuda.
The system is predicted to approach hurricane strength but remain well east of the US coast, according to forecast models. The National Hurricane Center warns that Bermuda could experience dangerous surf and gale-force winds early this week as Fernand nears.
Residents and visitors in Bermuda are advised to stay alert and monitor weather updates, as a slight shift in Fernand’s track toward the west could lead to more significant impacts on the island.
Forecasters expect Fernand to weaken after Monday due to cooler ocean waters and increased wind shear, likely transforming into a post-tropical cyclone within 3 to 4 days.
The large swells and the remnants of Hurricane Erin are expected to sustain rip current risks along the US East Coast into next week. However, a broad trough over the eastern US is acting as a barrier, helping to prevent additional tropical threats from reaching the mainland through the end of the month.
Meanwhile, cooler weather front across much of the eastern US is causing temperatures to dip 10 to 30 degrees below average, providing a temporary taste of fall for over 100 million people east of the Rockies.
Additionally, the US Weather Center is monitoring a tropical disturbance called Invest 99L, located less than 1,000 miles east of the Caribbean islands. Development is expected to be slow due to unfavorable upper-level winds and dry air, with some models suggesting possible formation in the western Caribbean or southern Gulf beyond the next week.
The upcoming system to watch will be named Gabrielle, marking the seventh named storm of the current Atlantic hurricane season, which peaks in September and runs through November 30.