Isaias has become the first Atlantic hurricane of the 2026 season, packing winds of 80mph and a minimum pressure of 975mb, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
The storm is expected to intensify into a category 2 hurricane as it approaches the US northern Gulf coast on Friday. NOAA said the system was likely to bring an estimated 75-150mm (2.9-5.9in) of rainfall across the Gulf coast, with up to 250mm possible in places and a risk of flash flooding and isolated river flooding.
Landfall is expected on Friday evening local time. NOAA also reported an increasing likelihood of life-threatening storm surge along parts of the northern Gulf coast, along with damaging hurricane-force winds across portions of the Florida panhandle, southern Alabama and Mississippi.
A hurricane warning has been issued. Residents have been urged to prepare for prolonged power outages and to follow any evacuation orders.
The late emergence of the season’s first hurricane reflects an unusually quiet Atlantic season driven by a strong El Niño. NOAA noted that the first hurricane of a season has not formed this late since 8 October 1905, a period that pre-dates the satellite era of the 1960s, which has enabled the detection of more non-landfall hurricanes.
Elsewhere, authorities in Zimbabwe declared a state of disaster in the south-east Masvingo province on Tuesday after a severe hailstorm caused widespread damage to homes and critical infrastructure. Preliminary assessments found roofs torn off 8,500 homes, while a further 15,300 people reported shattered windows, leaving many exposed as the rainy season begins. The storm also badly affected the country’s power infrastructure, disrupting drainage and sewerage systems and raising public health concerns.
In Australia, a rare tornado struck the town of Ulladulla, about 140 miles (230km) south of Sydney, on 3 October. Tornadoes are relatively uncommon in Australia, where around 50 occur each year. The Ulladulla tornado damaged properties and felled trees.
COMMENTS