Hurricane Kirk has intensified into a Category 3 storm in the Atlantic Ocean as of Wednesday, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center. Forecasters predict the storm will rapidly grow into a major hurricane in the coming days.
Currently, there are no coastal watches or warnings in effect, and the storm is not yet considered a direct threat to land. Hurricane Kirk reached Category 3 status on Wednesday, with its center located approximately 1,855 kilometers east-northeast of the Lesser Antilles. The storm boasts maximum sustained winds of 195 kilometers per hour and is moving northwest at 19 kilometers per hour.
A gradual turn toward the north-northwest and then northward is expected this week. Despite not posing an immediate threat to land, swells generated by Hurricane Kirk could affect portions of the Leeward Islands and Bermuda by the weekend. These swells are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions, prompting authorities to advise caution in affected coastal areas.
In addition to Hurricane Kirk, Tropical Storm Leslie formed late Wednesday in the eastern Atlantic Ocean. Forecasters indicate that Leslie could strengthen into a hurricane by the weekend. Like Kirk, Leslie currently poses no immediate threat to land, and no coastal watches or warnings are in effect. The storm is located about 790 kilometers southwest of the southernmost tip of the Cabo Verde Islands, with maximum sustained winds of 65 kilometers per hour.
These developments come at a time when many in the U.S. Southeast are still grappling with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which struck last week. The region faces challenges such as lack of running water, disrupted cellphone service, and power outages. Rescue efforts are ongoing as authorities search for individuals unaccounted for after Helene left a trail of devastation.
As the Atlantic hurricane season continues, meteorologists and local authorities urge residents in potentially affected areas to stay informed about storm developments and to prepare accordingly.
(Cover image: This satellite image provided by the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration shows Hurricane Kirk in the Atlantic Ocean, October 2, 2024. /AP)
Reference(s):
Hurricane Kirk strengthens into a Category 3 storm in the Atlantic
cgtn.com
