Tropical Storm Oscar Rapidly Intensifying with 70 mph Winds, 991 mb Pressure, Likely Already a Hurricane

Oct 19, 2024, 05:13 PM

Tropical Storm Oscar is rapidly intensifying and is likely already a hurricane, according to recent reconnaissance data. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has reported that Oscar has sustained winds of 70 mph and a central pressure of 991 mb. The storm has developed a 3-mile wide pinhole eye, indicating significant strengthening. Reconnaissance flights have recorded flight-level winds of approximately 70-75 knots. The NHC is expected to release a special advisory at 2 PM, confirming Oscar's status as a hurricane. The storm's rapid intensification is unprecedented, and it is expected to continue strengthening as long as environmental conditions remain favorable.