Potential Tropical Cyclone One Could Develop Into Alberto: Stay Updated and Prepared

A potential tropical cyclone, currently designated as Potential Tropical Cyclone One, has formed over the western Caribbean Sea and is expected to develop into Tropical Storm Alberto within the next few days. The system is moving northwestward toward the Yucatan Peninsula and could bring heavy rain and flooding to parts of Central America and Mexico.

Current Situation and Forecast Track

As of August 2, 2023, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued a Tropical Storm Watch for the northern coast of Honduras from the Honduras/Nicaragua border to Punta Patuca. The system is forecast to strengthen as it moves over the northwestern Caribbean Sea and is expected to reach tropical storm strength by the evening of August 3. The NHC predicts that the potential tropical cyclone will then continue on a northwestward track, making landfall along the Yucatan Peninsula on August 4.

Impacts and Preparations

Heavy Rain and Flooding: The potential tropical cyclone is expected to bring heavy rainfall to portions of Central America, Mexico, and the southeastern United States. The NHC predicts that some areas could receive up to 10-15 inches of rain, which could cause flash flooding and river flooding.

Wind Impacts: Tropical storm-force winds are possible along the coastlines of Honduras, Nicaragua, and Belize. Residents in these areas should be prepared for potential power outages and downed trees.

Coastal Impacts: The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Tropical Storm Warning for the north coast of the Yucatan Peninsula from Cancun to Progreso. Storm surge flooding is possible along the coast, particularly during high tide.

Preparations: Residents in the path of the potential tropical cyclone should take the following precautions:

• Monitor weather updates: Stay informed about the latest forecasts and advisories from the NHC and local weather services.
• Prepare an emergency kit: Include non-perishable food, water, first aid supplies, and important documents.
• Secure loose outdoor items: Bring in or secure lawn furniture, patio umbrellas, and other objects that could be blown away by strong winds.
• Elevate valuables: Move valuables and important documents to higher ground to protect them from flooding.
• Have an evacuation plan: Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes and have a plan in place in case you need to leave your home.

Timeline of Events

• August 2: Tropical Storm Watch issued for the northern coast of Honduras.
• August 3: Potential tropical cyclone expected to strengthen into Tropical Storm Alberto.
• August 4: Tropical storm expected to make landfall on the Yucatan Peninsula.
• August 5-6: Heavy rain and flooding expected across Central America and Mexico.

Resources and Assistance

• National Hurricane Center: https://www.nhc.noaa.gov
• National Weather Service: https://www.weather.gov
• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): https://www.fema.gov
• Red Cross: https://www.redcross.org

Conclusion

Potential Tropical Cyclone One is expected to intensify and become Tropical Storm Alberto in the coming days. Residents in the potential path of the storm should stay updated on the latest forecasts and advisories, and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their property.

Table 1: Potential Tropical Cyclone One Forecast Track

Table 2: Impacts of Tropical Storm Alberto

Table 3: Preparation Tips for Tropical Storm Alberto