Hurricane Leslie has weakened from Category 2 to Category 1, currently located 1,715 miles from the Azores. Moving west-northwest at 7 mph, it is expected to turn north and then northeast away from the U.S. The storm has sustained winds of 90 mph but is forecasted to weaken rapidly. No coastal warnings are in effect, while another weather system with the potential to become Tropical Storm Nadine has dissipated without significant impact.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) continues to monitor Hurricane Leslie, which has diminished in intensity from a Category 2 to a Category 1 storm as of Thursday morning. At approximately 11 a.m. Eastern Time, Leslie was recorded to be around 1,715 miles from the Azores region of Portugal, progressing west-northwestward at a speed of approximately 7 miles per hour. Forecasts indicate that the storm is anticipated to make a northern turn late Thursday, subsequently shifting northeastward away from the United States by Friday. As of late Thursday morning, Hurricane Leslie maintained maximum sustained winds of nearly 90 miles per hour; however, the NHC has projected a likelihood of “steady to rapid weakening” in the coming days. Currently, there are no coastal watches or warnings in effect. Additionally, the NHC was observing a weather system that had the potential to develop into Tropical Storm Nadine east of Florida earlier in the week, but this system has since dissipated without evolving into a significant weather occurrence.
Hurricane Leslie originated in the Atlantic and has shown substantial changes in its intensity and trajectory in recent days. Tropical systems such as hurricanes are classified into categories based on their sustained wind speeds, with Category 1 representing winds between 74 and 95 mph. The NHC provides critical updates on these storms, including forecasts and tracking models, which are crucial for public safety and preparedness. The agency utilizes various atmospheric models to project the storm’s path and potential impact. It is essential for coastal communities and regions nearby to remain informed about storm developments, especially during hurricane season when unpredictable weather behavior is common.
In summary, Hurricane Leslie has been downgraded to a Category 1 storm, with current tracking indicating a movement away from the U.S. toward the Azores. The National Hurricane Center reports a decline in wind strength and anticipates continued weakening. Awareness of such developments is crucial for safety, although no immediate threats have been issued at this time. Preparedness for future hurricanes remains paramount as the season progresses.
Original Source: www.usatoday.com
