Tropical Storm Sara is currently wreaking havoc in Central America and could potentially impact Florida and the U.S. Southeast as it moves through the region. The storm is expected to bring heavy rainfall, storm surge, and damaging winds to these areas. Sara has already caused significant rainfall and potential flooding in Honduras, with some areas experiencing up to 40 inches of rain.
The storm is projected to weaken over land and regain strength as it moves back over water in the Gulf of Mexico. Forecasters are closely monitoring its path to determine its potential impact on the U.S. Gulf Coast. Sara is the 18th named storm of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, which has been particularly brutal, with 11 hurricanes causing significant damage, including Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
There is a possibility that Sara could strengthen to hurricane status, which would be rare for November. Only three hurricanes have previously affected the U.S. or made landfall in November, according to NOAA records. The potential damage caused by Sara would add to the already substantial impact of this year’s hurricane season, with the combined damage from Helene and Milton estimated to approach $100 billion.
As the devastating 2024 hurricane season draws to a close, Sara serves as a reminder of the destructive power of these natural disasters and the ongoing need for preparedness and resilience in the face of such events.
Photo credit
www.usatoday.com
