Hurricane Lee restrengthens, bringing dangerous surf conditions to U.S. East Coast

Hurricane Lee restrengthens, bringing dangerous surf conditions to U.S. East Coast

Hurricane Lee has regained strength and is currently moving west-northwest in the tropical Atlantic Ocean. The U.S. National Hurricane Center has issued a warning about the potential hazards it poses to the U.S. East Coast. Starting from Sunday night and lasting for several days, the East Coast can expect dangerous surf conditions and rip currents due to the hurricane’s impact.

As of now, Hurricane Lee is located approximately 455 kilometers northeast of the northern Leeward Islands. It is projected to track north of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and other Caribbean islands. The storm is currently packing winds with speeds of 120 mph (195 kph). It has been upgraded back to a Category 3 hurricane after briefly being downgraded to Category 2 earlier on Sunday. The National Hurricane Center anticipates further strengthening over the next day or so.

The forecasters have issued a statement warning of significant swells affecting various areas, including the British and U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Hispaniola, Turks and Caicos, the Bahamas, and Bermuda. These swells are likely to create life-threatening surf conditions and rip currents. Dangerous surf and rip currents have already begun impacting parts of the U.S. southeast coast and are expected to intensify and move northward in the coming days.

Despite the approaching hurricane, Sunday initially appeared to be a typical hot and humid late summer day in San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico. People were seen walking along the beach and engaging in outdoor activities, and local businesses remained open. However, residents and visitors were advised to exercise caution and avoid the water due to the expected swells and dangerous rip currents generated by the approaching storm.

The National Weather Service’s office in Puerto Rico has forecasted waves of 6 to 10 feet, with the possibility of even higher waves in certain coastal areas.