Tropical Storm Humberto Poses Significant Threat to Southeast U.S. Early Next Week

Miami, FL – September 28, 2025 – The Southeast United States is bracing for a significant tropical threat as Tropical Storm Humberto, currently churning in the Atlantic, is projected to intensify rapidly and bring dangerous weather conditions to the region early next week. Forecast models from the National Hurricane Center (NHC) indicate a high probability of Humberto impacting coastal areas from Florida northward to the Carolinas, potentially as a hurricane.

The developing situation has prompted emergency management agencies across multiple states to activate preparedness protocols, urging residents in vulnerable coastal zones to finalize their storm plans and stay vigilant as the system approaches.

Atlantic Activity: Humberto's Trajectory

On Friday, two tropical disturbances were observed simultaneously swirling in the Atlantic. One of these systems quickly organized and was officially named Tropical Storm Humberto by the NHC on Saturday morning. As of Sunday morning, Humberto is located several hundred miles east of the Bahamas, moving west-northwest at approximately 15 mph.

Forecasters at the NHC and NOAA’s Hurricane Research Division are closely monitoring Humberto's trajectory, which is currently favored to take it towards the eastern seaboard of the U.S. Current projections show the storm approaching the Florida coastline by late Monday or early Tuesday, before potentially tracking northward along the coast. The other disturbance in the Atlantic is less organized and not considered an immediate threat to land.

Forecasted Intensification and Impacts

Tropical Storm Humberto is operating in an environment conducive to rapid intensification, with warm ocean waters and low wind shear. Experts warn that the storm could reach hurricane strength before making landfall or passing dangerously close to the U.S. coast. "All indications point towards Humberto becoming a significant weather event for the Southeast," stated Dr. Sarah Jenkins, a senior meteorologist with NOAA. "Residents should prepare for the possibility of a Category 1 or 2 hurricane, bringing with it a multi-faceted threat."

Potential impacts include:

• Heavy Rainfall: Widespread heavy rainfall could lead to significant flash flooding in urban areas and along rivers, particularly given the already saturated ground in some parts of the Southeast from recent seasonal rains.
• Damaging Winds: Hurricane-force winds near the core of the storm could cause power outages, structural damage, and down trees across a broad area. Tropical storm-force winds are expected to extend far from the center.
• Life-Threatening Storm Surge: Coastal communities, especially those in low-lying areas, face the risk of dangerous storm surge, which could inundate homes and infrastructure. The exact height and reach of the surge will depend on the storm's intensity and track.
• Dangerous Rip Currents and Beach Erosion: Even areas not directly hit by the storm's center will likely experience hazardous surf conditions and significant beach erosion.

Emergency Preparations Underway

State and local emergency management agencies from Florida to North Carolina are actively preparing for Humberto's arrival. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency for several coastal counties on Saturday, initiating logistical preparations for potential evacuations and resource deployment. Similar declarations are anticipated in Georgia and the Carolinas in the coming hours, depending on the updated forecast.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is coordinating with state partners, pre-positioning supplies and personnel to assist with response and recovery efforts. "We urge all residents in the forecasted path to heed official warnings, review their family emergency plans, and ensure their disaster kits are stocked," said a FEMA spokesperson. "Now is not the time for complacency."

Expert Outlook and Long-Term Concerns

This late-September threat underscores the ongoing volatility of the Atlantic hurricane season, which has seen an increase in active storms in recent years. Climate scientists continue to highlight the role of warming ocean temperatures in potentially fueling more intense and rapidly developing tropical cyclones. While attributing individual events directly to climate change is complex, the trend towards stronger storms is a growing concern for coastal resilience.

Staying Prepared: Key Recommendations

Authorities strongly advise residents in the potentially affected regions to take immediate action:

• Monitor Official Sources: Stay updated with the latest forecasts and advisories from the National Hurricane Center, local weather stations, and emergency management agencies.
• Secure Property: Bring in outdoor furniture, secure windows and doors, and clear storm drains.
• Prepare an Emergency Kit: Ensure you have enough food, water, medications, and supplies for at least 72 hours, including a battery-powered radio and flashlight.
• Know Your Evacuation Zone: Understand if you live in an evacuation zone and be ready to follow official evacuation orders.
• Communicate with Family: Establish a family communication plan and identify safe meeting points.

The coming 24 to 48 hours will be critical in refining the exact path and intensity of Tropical Storm Humberto. Officials emphasize that readiness is paramount, irrespective of the storm's final trajectory.