Ophelia’s Weakening Still Threatens US with Flooding and Heavy Rain.
Northeast Braces for Ongoing Impact of Ophelia
Despite being downgraded from a tropical storm, Ophelia continues to pose a threat to parts of the Northeast. The National Hurricane Center warns of coastal flooding, life-threatening waves, and heavy rain from Washington to New York City.
But that’s not all. As Ophelia weakens, a new tropical storm named Philippe is brewing in the Atlantic.
Although Ophelia lost its tropical storm status, meteorologists caution that the storm’s swells will still affect the East Coast throughout the weekend. This means dangerous surf conditions and rip currents are likely. Additionally, Ophelia is expected to bring 1 to 3 inches of rain to the Mid-Atlantic and New England, with the possibility of isolated river flooding.
Ophelia currently sits south of Washington and is projected to continue moving northeast before turning east and further weakening over the next two days. Meanwhile, Philippe is brewing 1,175 miles west of the Cabo Verde Islands with sustained winds of 50 mph.
Reports from the National Weather Service indicate coastal flooding in numerous New Jersey communities, including Sea Isle City and Brielle. Thousands of people in the state are still without power. Flooding and road closures have also been reported in coastal Delaware.
Ophelia made landfall near Emerald Isle, North Carolina, with winds close to hurricane strength. However, as the storm moved north, its winds diminished. Videos on social media show significant flooding in riverfront communities like New Bern, Belhaven, and Washington. Thousands of homes and businesses in North Carolina remain without electricity.
Even before reaching land, Ophelia proved dangerous enough to require a Coast Guard rescue of five individuals, including three children, stranded on a catamaran off Cape Lookout, North Carolina.
In another incident, a small pit bull was rescued from floodwaters by a police officer in Greenville. The dog was tied to a fence and in danger of drowning. Animal protection authorities have launched an investigation.
Furthermore, a rescue team assisted the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office in evacuating 15 people from a campground between the Pamlico River and Chocowinity Bay.
Despite the challenges, the Beaufort Pirate Invasion event in North Carolina’s Outer Banks finally opened after winds tore down tents and disrupted plans.
In New York City, high winds forced the suspension of ferry service to Rockaway, while other ferries continued to operate on schedule.
On Friday, the governors of North Carolina, Virginia, and Maryland declared a state of emergency.
How are officials preparing for the impacts of Ophelia and Philippe in vulnerable coastal areas?
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