Hurricane Lee is rapidly approaching the Northeast region, posing a significant threat of heavy rain and powerful winds. Forecasters predict that the storm will make landfall in southwestern Nova Scotia as a strong tropical storm on Saturday afternoon. Although it is expected to weaken, Lee still has the potential to bring about 4 inches (10 cm) of rain and winds reaching up to 60 mph (97 kph) in certain areas.
Authorities in both the United States and Canada are urging residents to prepare for potential flooding and power outages. The US National Hurricane Center has issued a tropical storm warning for a vast stretch of coastline from Massachusetts to Nova Scotia, affecting approximately 9 million people.
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu has advised citizens to stay indoors if possible on Saturday and to check on their loved ones and neighbors. The storm’s impact is expected to be significant, with the National Weather Service warning that Lee will be a large and dangerous storm when it reaches eastern New England and Atlantic Canada.
Some areas, such as Cape Cod in Massachusetts and eastern Halifax County in Nova Scotia, may experience a storm surge of up to 3 feet (91 cm), adding to the potential risks associated with the storm.
Lee has already been generating significant activity over the Atlantic for over a week, briefly posing a threat to Bermuda. However, it has largely been harmless for those on land. By Friday afternoon, the storm had sustained winds of nearly 80 mph (130 kph).
This hurricane season has proven to be exceptionally active, with a higher-than-average number of named storms. Lee is the latest in this series of storms that has impacted various regions.
As Hurricane Lee rapidly approaches, it is crucial for residents in the storm’s path to take necessary precautions. Stay informed about the latest updates and follow the guidance of local officials to ensure your safety and the well-being of your community.