National Hurricane Center urges Floridians to monitor tropical storm Sara

Potential impacts on the Gulf Coast

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is advising residents of the eastern Gulf Coast, including Florida, to closely monitor tropical storm Sara as it forms in the Caribbean. The storm could pose a significant threat to the U.S. next week, depending on its path and development.

Current status of tropical storm Sara

Currently, Sara is classified as tropical depression nineteen with sustained winds of 35 mph and located 65 miles east of the Honduras-Nicaragua border. The storm is expected to strengthen as it moves over the warm waters of the western Caribbean, known for fueling powerful systems like hurricane Rafael earlier this season. Tropical storm alerts have been issued for Honduras and Nicaragua, with wind and heavy rainfall expected to begin Thursday evening and intensify by Friday.

Severe conditions predicted for Central America

Sara is predicted to bring up to 30 inches of rain in some regions of Honduras, creating a high risk of severe flooding and mudslides. The NHC warns of potentially catastrophic outcomes, urging residents to take precautions. Belize and the Yucatán Peninsula are also in the storm’s projected path, with possible storm surge and strong winds by early next week.

Possible scenarios for the U.S.

Several outcomes are possible depending on how Sara interacts with the coast of Central America over the coming days. If the storm makes significant landfall in Honduras, it may weaken while cut off from warm water. However, if it stays close to the coast or remains over water, it could strengthen and head toward the southern Gulf of Mexico. In the latter scenario, Sara could become a stronger system and potentially impact Florida or other parts of the eastern Gulf Coast next week.

The Gulf of Mexico’s record-warm waters could also play a role in boosting the storm’s intensity. While forecast models now show Sara skirting closer to Honduras than initially expected, reducing the chance of rapid intensification, residents are advised to stay informed as conditions evolve.