Hurricane Omar: Difference between revisions
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On [[Sint Maarten]], officials advised residents to start all necessary actions to prepare for a hurricane. Residents were told to clear their yards of any debris or lose furniture that could become airborne during the storm, place shutters over windows and doors and assist elderly neighbors with shuttering their homes, and mariners should find a safe haven. A curfew from 10:00 p.m. on October 15 to 10:00 a.m. on October 16 was put in place. Due to the possibility of flash flooding, residents were to unclog and free up all waterways around their homes. Officials also warned people to stay away from areas prone to landslides until the "all-clear" was given. Owners of livestock were advised to have insured that they were secured in holding areas. As a precaution, the water supply would be shut down from 8:00 p.m. October 15 to 8:00 a.m. October 16. Four public areas, St. Peters Community Center, Dutch Quarter Community Center, Genevieve de Weever School, and the Salvation Army building would be used as emergency shelters.<ref name="EOC1">{{cite web|url=http://stormcarib.com/reports/current/doc3lgjz1gYyC.doc|date=October 15, 2008|author=Roddy Heyliger|publisher=Emergency Operations Center|title=Press Statement Hurricane Omar October 15th 2008|accessdate=December 22, 2008}} {{Dead link|date=September 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref> |
On [[Sint Maarten]], officials advised residents to start all necessary actions to prepare for a hurricane. Residents were told to clear their yards of any debris or lose furniture that could become airborne during the storm, place shutters over windows and doors and assist elderly neighbors with shuttering their homes, and mariners should find a safe haven. A curfew from 10:00 p.m. on October 15 to 10:00 a.m. on October 16 was put in place. Due to the possibility of flash flooding, residents were to unclog and free up all waterways around their homes. Officials also warned people to stay away from areas prone to landslides until the "all-clear" was given. Owners of livestock were advised to have insured that they were secured in holding areas. As a precaution, the water supply would be shut down from 8:00 p.m. October 15 to 8:00 a.m. October 16. Four public areas, St. Peters Community Center, Dutch Quarter Community Center, Genevieve de Weever School, and the Salvation Army building would be used as emergency shelters.<ref name="EOC1">{{cite web|url=http://stormcarib.com/reports/current/doc3lgjz1gYyC.doc|date=October 15, 2008|author=Roddy Heyliger|publisher=Emergency Operations Center|title=Press Statement Hurricane Omar October 15th 2008|accessdate=December 22, 2008}} {{Dead link|date=September 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref> |
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All public activities, flights, and schools were either closed or canceled on [[Puerto Rico]]. Eighteen shelters were open on the eastern part of the island.<ref name="ABCA1">{{cite web|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/10/17/2393552.htm|date=October 17, 2008|publisher=ABC News Australia|title= Hurricane Omar lashes Virgin Islands|accessdate=December 22, 2008}}</ref> Also, on [[Anguilla]], residents in the Sandy Ground, Valley Bottom, Welches and Mount Fortune areas were placed under evacuation orders. Shelters were opened throughout the island for those in need of shelter. Schools and government offices were also closed and visitors were told to leave the island.<ref name="CDERA1">{{cite web|url=http://www. |
All public activities, flights, and schools were either closed or canceled on [[Puerto Rico]]. Eighteen shelters were open on the eastern part of the island.<ref name="ABCA1">{{cite web|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/10/17/2393552.htm|date=October 17, 2008|publisher=ABC News Australia|title= Hurricane Omar lashes Virgin Islands|accessdate=December 22, 2008}}</ref> Also, on [[Anguilla]], residents in the Sandy Ground, Valley Bottom, Welches and Mount Fortune areas were placed under evacuation orders. Shelters were opened throughout the island for those in need of shelter. Schools and government offices were also closed and visitors were told to leave the island.<ref name="CDERA1">{{cite web|url=http://www.cdera.org/cunews/sitrep/article_2248.php |date=October 15, 2008 |publisher=The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency |title=Hurricane Omar Closes in on Northern Leeward Islands, BVI |accessdate=December 22, 2008 |deadurl=unfit |archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/5dGPHwGQI |archivedate=December 22, 2008 }}</ref> |
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==Impact== |
==Impact== |
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The island of [[Dominica]] suffered severe damage from Hurricane Omar. The village of [[Scotts Head, Dominica|Scotts Head]], with a population of 450, was cut off from the rest of the country as roads were extensively damaged. The village also suffered water losses, electricity shortage, and landline telephones were cut off. Ports throughout the country were severely damaged. All barge access for hauling sand and stones were destroyed. The airport also sustained some damage. Seven boats ran aground during the storm.<ref name="RW1">{{cite web|url=http://www.reliefweb.int/rw/rwb.nsf/db900SID/EDIS-7KHSP5?OpenDocument|date=October 16, 2008|author= Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency|publisher=Reliefweb|title=Hurricane Omar Situation Report #2|accessdate=December 21, 2008}}</ref> Minor damage was reported in [[Anguilla]]. Two hotels sustained roof damage, downed treed knocked down power lines causing scattered power outages, and the rough seas caused severe beach erosion. Three cargo ships and seven boats ran aground and two other boats sank.<ref name="CDERA2">{{cite web|url=http://www.cdera.org/cunews/sitrep/article_2249.php|date=October 16, 2008|publisher= Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency|title=Hurricane Omar impacts five CDERA Participating States|accessdate=December 22, 2008}}</ref> |
The island of [[Dominica]] suffered severe damage from Hurricane Omar. The village of [[Scotts Head, Dominica|Scotts Head]], with a population of 450, was cut off from the rest of the country as roads were extensively damaged. The village also suffered water losses, electricity shortage, and landline telephones were cut off. Ports throughout the country were severely damaged. All barge access for hauling sand and stones were destroyed. The airport also sustained some damage. Seven boats ran aground during the storm.<ref name="RW1">{{cite web|url=http://www.reliefweb.int/rw/rwb.nsf/db900SID/EDIS-7KHSP5?OpenDocument|date=October 16, 2008|author= Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency|publisher=Reliefweb|title=Hurricane Omar Situation Report #2|accessdate=December 21, 2008}}</ref> Minor damage was reported in [[Anguilla]]. Two hotels sustained roof damage, downed treed knocked down power lines causing scattered power outages, and the rough seas caused severe beach erosion. Three cargo ships and seven boats ran aground and two other boats sank.<ref name="CDERA2">{{cite web|url=http://www.cdera.org/cunews/sitrep/article_2249.php|date=October 16, 2008|publisher= Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency|title=Hurricane Omar impacts five CDERA Participating States|accessdate=December 22, 2008}}</ref> |
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In [[Antigua]] and [[Barbuda]], winds from Omar were recorded at 40 mph, with gusts to 48 mph. Intense squall lines brought torrential rains, falling at rates of 2 in (50.8 mm) at times, peaking at 2.22 in (56.4 mm) per hour from 0900 [[Coordinated Universal Time|UTC]] to 1200 UTC on October 16. The maximum recorded rainfall was 9.1 in (232.6 mm) however, up to 11 in (279.4 mm) was estimated to have fallen in the mountains. [[Storm Surge]] was estimated at 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m) with waves reaching 5–8 ft (1.5–2.4 m) in height. Nine homes were destroyed and several landslides were reported. No fatalities were associated with Omar, and only a few sustained minor injuries. The most severe damage was dealt to roads and agriculture due to flooding.<ref name="ABTCR"/> Seventy-five people were forced to evacuate to shelters as their homes were flooded.<ref name="OS1">{{cite web|url=http://www. |
In [[Antigua]] and [[Barbuda]], winds from Omar were recorded at 40 mph, with gusts to 48 mph. Intense squall lines brought torrential rains, falling at rates of 2 in (50.8 mm) at times, peaking at 2.22 in (56.4 mm) per hour from 0900 [[Coordinated Universal Time|UTC]] to 1200 UTC on October 16. The maximum recorded rainfall was 9.1 in (232.6 mm) however, up to 11 in (279.4 mm) was estimated to have fallen in the mountains. [[Storm Surge]] was estimated at 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m) with waves reaching 5–8 ft (1.5–2.4 m) in height. Nine homes were destroyed and several landslides were reported. No fatalities were associated with Omar, and only a few sustained minor injuries. The most severe damage was dealt to roads and agriculture due to flooding.<ref name="ABTCR"/> Seventy-five people were forced to evacuate to shelters as their homes were flooded.<ref name="OS1">{{cite web|url=http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/weather/hurricane/sfl-hurricane-omar.5am,0,7330119.story |date=October 17, 2008 |author=Anika Kentish |publisher=Orlando Sentinel |title=Omar floods homes, damages crops in Antigua |accessdate=December 22, 2008 |deadurl=unfit |archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/5dGLq1uX3 |archivedate=December 22, 2008 }}</ref> Several farms were washed away, including their livestock. Numerous farmers lost their harvest due to flooding.<ref name="AS5">{{cite web|url=http://www.webcitation.org/5dGCNegLE|date=October 20, 2008|author=Brian Ho|publisher=Antigua Sun|title=Heavy Crop Loss …Massiah says assistance needed for farmers following Omar|accessdate=December 22, 2008}}</ref> Damages in Barbuda were estimated at $18 million.<ref name="ABTCR">{{cite web|url=http://www.antiguamet.com/Hurricane%20Omar%20-%20October%202008.pdf|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20090225113313/http://www.antiguamet.com/Hurricane%20Omar%20-%20October%202008.pdf|archivedate=February 25, 2009|date=October 31, 2008|author=Dale Destin|publisher=Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service|title=Hurricane Omar Antigua and Barbuda Tropical Cyclone Report|accessdate=December 21, 2008|format=[[PDF]]}}</ref> Agricultural losses in Antigua amounted to around $11 million (2008 USD)<ref name="AS1">{{cite web|author=Brian Ho|title=Agricultural losses amount to $11M|year=2008|publisher=Antigua Sun|accessdate=December 21, 2008|url=http://www.antiguasun.com/paper/?as=view&sun=281935077507132005&an=170535058610312008&ac=Local}}</ref> and property damage amounted to $25 million.<ref name="AS2">{{cite web|url=http://www.webcitation.org/5dEpN92IK|date=November 28, 2008|publisher=Antigua Sun|title=Our million dollar roads|accessdate=December 21, 2008}}</ref> |
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[[File:Hurricane Omar damage in Aurba.jpg|thumb|right|Damage from Hurricane Omar in Aruba|alt=A large tree knocked over on a fence. The ground throughout the image is wet and near the tree, it is torn by the roots.]] |
[[File:Hurricane Omar damage in Aurba.jpg|thumb|right|Damage from Hurricane Omar in Aruba|alt=A large tree knocked over on a fence. The ground throughout the image is wet and near the tree, it is torn by the roots.]] |
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In [[Puerto Rico]], a man died after he collapsed from cardiac arrest while trying to install storm shutters on his home.<ref name="FOX2">{{cite web|url=http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,438722,00.html|date=October 16, 2008|author=Associated Press|publisher=Fox News|title=Category 3 Hurricane Omar Slams Northern Caribbean|accessdate=December 22, 2008}}</ref> As a tropical wave, the precedent to Omar produced heavy rains over the island, causing minor flooding.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=National Climatic Data Center|year=2009|accessdate=March 16, 2009|title=NCDC Event Report: Puerto Rico Rain|url=http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwevent~ShowEvent~741915}}</ref> After passing by Puerto Rico a second time, Omar produced locally heavy rains, which caused minor street flooding.<ref>{{cite web|author= John Marino|publisher=Reuters|date=October 16, 2008|accessdate=March 18, 2009|title=Hurricane Omar weakens after surging into Atlantic|url=http://www.reuters.com/article/topNews/idUSTRE49E03420081016?feedType=RSS&feedName=topNews&sp=true}}</ref> |
In [[Puerto Rico]], a man died after he collapsed from cardiac arrest while trying to install storm shutters on his home.<ref name="FOX2">{{cite web|url=http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,438722,00.html|date=October 16, 2008|author=Associated Press|publisher=Fox News|title=Category 3 Hurricane Omar Slams Northern Caribbean|accessdate=December 22, 2008}}</ref> As a tropical wave, the precedent to Omar produced heavy rains over the island, causing minor flooding.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=National Climatic Data Center|year=2009|accessdate=March 16, 2009|title=NCDC Event Report: Puerto Rico Rain|url=http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwevent~ShowEvent~741915}}</ref> After passing by Puerto Rico a second time, Omar produced locally heavy rains, which caused minor street flooding.<ref>{{cite web|author= John Marino|publisher=Reuters|date=October 16, 2008|accessdate=March 18, 2009|title=Hurricane Omar weakens after surging into Atlantic|url=http://www.reuters.com/article/topNews/idUSTRE49E03420081016?feedType=RSS&feedName=topNews&sp=true}}</ref> |
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On [[St. Croix]], waves up to 15 ft (4.5 m) from Omar sank about 47 boats,<ref name="STCNCDC">{{cite web|publisher=National Climatic Data Center|year=2009|accessdate=March 18, 2009|title=NCDC Event Report: St. Croix Flood|url=http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwevent~ShowEvent~741899}}</ref> leading to a large oil spill around the islands. About 400 ships broke lose from the docks, 200 of which lost their anchors.<ref name="FOX1"/> Omar produced upwards of 7 in (177.8 mm) of rain on the island within a 24‑hour span. Although St. Croix was brushed by the eyewall, sustained winds reached 53 mph (85 km/h) with gusts to 72 mph (116 km/h).<ref name="STCNCDC"/> Three people needed to be rescued when their ship struck a reef and began to sink. Most of the islands 55,000 residents were without power as over 100 utility poles were destroyed. Damages on the island were estimated at $700,000 with another $1 million in clean-up costs.<ref name="FOX1">{{cite web|url=http://www.webcitation.org/5dFQqq3qc|year=2008|author=Steve Bullock|publisher=Fox40|title=Oil spills spreading in St. Croix after Hurricane Omar destroyed 40 boats|accessdate=December 22, 2008}}</ref> [[Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands|St. Thomas]], one of the hardest hit islands, was left completely without power in the wake of the hurricane. All of the major intersections were shut down as traffic lights were either on the ground or without power. Damages on the island totaled to $5.3 million.<ref name="VIDN1">{{cite web|url=http://www. |
On [[St. Croix]], waves up to 15 ft (4.5 m) from Omar sank about 47 boats,<ref name="STCNCDC">{{cite web|publisher=National Climatic Data Center|year=2009|accessdate=March 18, 2009|title=NCDC Event Report: St. Croix Flood|url=http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwevent~ShowEvent~741899}}</ref> leading to a large oil spill around the islands. About 400 ships broke lose from the docks, 200 of which lost their anchors.<ref name="FOX1"/> Omar produced upwards of 7 in (177.8 mm) of rain on the island within a 24‑hour span. Although St. Croix was brushed by the eyewall, sustained winds reached 53 mph (85 km/h) with gusts to 72 mph (116 km/h).<ref name="STCNCDC"/> Three people needed to be rescued when their ship struck a reef and began to sink. Most of the islands 55,000 residents were without power as over 100 utility poles were destroyed. Damages on the island were estimated at $700,000 with another $1 million in clean-up costs.<ref name="FOX1">{{cite web|url=http://www.webcitation.org/5dFQqq3qc|year=2008|author=Steve Bullock|publisher=Fox40|title=Oil spills spreading in St. Croix after Hurricane Omar destroyed 40 boats|accessdate=December 22, 2008}}</ref> [[Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands|St. Thomas]], one of the hardest hit islands, was left completely without power in the wake of the hurricane. All of the major intersections were shut down as traffic lights were either on the ground or without power. Damages on the island totaled to $5.3 million.<ref name="VIDN1">{{cite web|url=http://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/index.pl/article_home?id=17629714 |date=October 22, 2008 |author=Aldeth Lewin |publisher=The Virgin Islands Daily News |title=Omar's damage estimate now at $5.3 million |accessdate=December 22, 2008 |deadurl=unfit |archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/5dFRf4Wyn |archivedate=December 22, 2008 }}</ref> |
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In the [[Gros Islet Quarter]] on [[St. Lucia]], rough seas damaged a [[jetty]] and grounded a yacht. In [[Soufrière, Saint Lucia|Soufrière]], four homes were destroyed by the storm surge, which also made some areas impassible. The storm surge also flooded parts of the [[Anse la Raye Quarter]], leading to officials declaring a mandatory evacuation of the area.<ref name="Waves">{{cite web|url=http://www.stlucia.gov.lc/docs/SitRep_HurricaneOmarNo2.pdf|date=October 20, 2008|author=A. L. Dawn French and Chamberlain Emmanuel|publisher=National Emergency Management Organisation|title=Waves of Hurricane Omar|accessdate=December 21, 2008|format=[[PDF]]}}</ref> On [[Montserrat]], very little damage was reported. A few minor landslides occurred in rural areas; no impact was caused by them.<ref name="CDERA2"/> On [[Nevis]] there was relatively little damage although the beachfront part of the Four Seasons Resort was severely damaged and was subsequently closed for an extended period.<ref>{{cite web|author= Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency|publisher=ReliefWeb|date=October 16, 2008|accessdate=May 12, 2009|title=Hurricane Omar impacts five CDERA participating states|url=http://www.reliefweb.int/rw/rwb.nsf/db900SID/YSAR-7KGR85?OpenDocument}}</ref> Throughout St. Kitts and Nevis, damage was estimated at $19 million.<ref>{{cite web|author= International Monetary Fund|publisher=The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency|date=May 16, 2009|accessdate=April 24, 2010|title= IMF Executive Board Approves US$3.4 Million in Emergency Natural Disaster Assistance for St. Kitts and Nevis|url=http://www.cdera.org/cunews/news/article_2341.php}}</ref> |
In the [[Gros Islet Quarter]] on [[St. Lucia]], rough seas damaged a [[jetty]] and grounded a yacht. In [[Soufrière, Saint Lucia|Soufrière]], four homes were destroyed by the storm surge, which also made some areas impassible. The storm surge also flooded parts of the [[Anse la Raye Quarter]], leading to officials declaring a mandatory evacuation of the area.<ref name="Waves">{{cite web|url=http://www.stlucia.gov.lc/docs/SitRep_HurricaneOmarNo2.pdf|date=October 20, 2008|author=A. L. Dawn French and Chamberlain Emmanuel|publisher=National Emergency Management Organisation|title=Waves of Hurricane Omar|accessdate=December 21, 2008|format=[[PDF]]}}</ref> On [[Montserrat]], very little damage was reported. A few minor landslides occurred in rural areas; no impact was caused by them.<ref name="CDERA2"/> On [[Nevis]] there was relatively little damage although the beachfront part of the Four Seasons Resort was severely damaged and was subsequently closed for an extended period.<ref>{{cite web|author= Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency|publisher=ReliefWeb|date=October 16, 2008|accessdate=May 12, 2009|title=Hurricane Omar impacts five CDERA participating states|url=http://www.reliefweb.int/rw/rwb.nsf/db900SID/YSAR-7KGR85?OpenDocument}}</ref> Throughout St. Kitts and Nevis, damage was estimated at $19 million.<ref>{{cite web|author= International Monetary Fund|publisher=The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency|date=May 16, 2009|accessdate=April 24, 2010|title= IMF Executive Board Approves US$3.4 Million in Emergency Natural Disaster Assistance for St. Kitts and Nevis|url=http://www.cdera.org/cunews/news/article_2341.php}}</ref> |
Revision as of 08:01, 4 July 2016
Category 4 major hurricane (SSHWS/NWS) | |
![]() Omar in the Caribbean Sea as a Category 1 hurricane. | |
Formed | October 13, 2008 |
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Dissipated | October 21, 2008 |
(Extratropical after October 18) | |
Highest winds | 1-minute sustained: 130 mph (215 km/h) |
Lowest pressure | 958 mbar (hPa); 28.29 inHg |
Fatalities | 1 indirect |
Damage | $79 million (2008 USD) |
Areas affected | Venezuela, Leeward Antilles, Leeward Islands, Puerto Rico |
Part of the 2008 Atlantic hurricane season |
Hurricane Omar was a strong hurricane that took an unusual southwest to northeast track through the eastern Caribbean Sea during October, 2008. Forming out of a tropical disturbance on October 13, Omar initially moved slowly in the eastern Caribbean Sea. By October 15, Omar began to quickly intensify as deep convection developed around the center of circulation. Later that day, an eye developed and the storm began to accelerate to the northeast. Early on October 16, Omar reached its peak intensity with winds of 130 mph (215 km/h) and a barometric pressure of 958 mbar (hPa; 28.29 inHg). Shortly after, the hurricane rapidly weakened to Category 1 intensity. After slightly re-strengthening the next day, Omar weakened to a tropical storm before degenerating into a non-convective low pressure area. The remnants of Omar persisted until October 21 at which time it dissipated to the west of the Azores.
Throughout the eastern Caribbean, Omar affected numerous islands, most of which only recorded minor impacts. Large swells and heavy rains impacted the ABC islands. Antigua and Barbuda sustained $54 million in damages, mainly on Antigua as nine homes were destroyed, several others damaged and many farms were inundated by flood waters. One person died in Puerto Rico after suffering a stress-induced cardiac arrest. The United States Virgin Islands also sustained significant damage, costing roughly $6 million. Numerous boats and homes were damaged and over 100 power poles were snapped. Total losses from the storm were estimated at $79 million.
Meteorological history
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b1/Omar_2008_track.png/275px-Omar_2008_track.png)
Tropical storm (39–73 mph, 63–118 km/h)
Category 1 (74–95 mph, 119–153 km/h)
Category 2 (96–110 mph, 154–177 km/h)
Category 3 (111–129 mph, 178–208 km/h)
Category 4 (130–156 mph, 209–251 km/h)
Category 5 (≥157 mph, ≥252 km/h)
Unknown
![triangle](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/50/ArrowUp.svg/18px-ArrowUp.svg.png)
On September 30, a well-developed tropical wave moved off the eastern coast of Africa and entered the Atlantic Ocean. Deep convection formed around a prominent mid-level circulation as it moved towards the west. However, the convection diminished on October 2 before entering the Caribbean Sea a week later. Upon entering the Caribbean Sea, shower and thunderstorm activity redeveloped around the low. Continued development followed and the low was designated as Tropical Depression Fifteen at 0600 UTC on October 13 while located about 190 miles (305 kilometres) south of the southeastern tip of the Dominican Republic.[1] The previous steady westward motion that the system took across the Atlantic halted as it entered an area of weak steering currents and significant motion was not expected for another day or two.[2] As the structure of the storm improved, it was upgraded to a tropical storm and the National Hurricane Center (NHC) gave it the name Omar.[1]
Located to the southeast of a broad and deep tropospheric trough and to the west of a low to mid-level ridge, Omar took a counter-clockwise turn on October 14. Upon becoming a tropical storm, Omar began to undergo an extended period of rapid intensification as very deep convection developed around the center of circulation.[1] Wind shear around the storm, which was previously inhibiting quick development, weakened, allowing for further strengthening.[3] Later that day, an 11.5 to 17.2 mi (18.5 to 27.7 km) wide eye formed[4] as the storm began to turn towards the northeast due to the trough.[1] With the formation of an eye, the Dvorak technique rendered an intensity of 75 mph (120 km/h), signifying that Omar had intensified into a hurricane.[5] The intensification briefly stalled as the eyewall eroded and the center of the storm became slightly elliptical. However, deep convection persisted and strengthening was forecast as the storm neared Puerto Rico.[6] Shortly after, the eye quickly became well-defined and appeared on visible satellite images, an indication the storm was intensifying. The chances of rapid intensification were good as the storm featured well-developed outflow and prominent banding features.[1][7]
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/5a/Hurricane_Omar_secondary_peak.jpg/220px-Hurricane_Omar_secondary_peak.jpg)
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/c5/Omar_16_oct_2008_0545Z.jpg/220px-Omar_16_oct_2008_0545Z.jpg)
With very warm sea surface temperatures, high ocean heat content, low wind shear, and a moist air mass, Omar quickly reached its peak intensity early on October 16 as a Category 4 hurricane with winds of 130 mph (215 km/h).[1] During the intensification phase, the forward motion of the hurricane increased to 20 mph (32 km/h).[8] Once in the Atlantic Ocean, Omar began to rapidly weaken, with winds decreasing by 50 mph (85 km/h) in 12 hours. Visible satellite images depicted an exposed low-level circulation with convection displaced to the east due to a combination of very high wind shear and dry air. By October 17, most of the deep convection associated with the system dissipated; however, a brief decrease in wind shear allowed Omar to re-strengthen to its secondary peak, with winds of 85 mph (140 km/h). During this phase, convection redeveloped around the center and an eye reformed. Later that day, the trough that caused the rapid northeastern motion bypassed Omar, leading to decreasing movement.[1]
A weakening storm, Omar continued towards the northeast due to a mid to upper-level ridge located south of the system and the mid-latitude westerlies to the north. Late on October 17, wind shear increased once more as Omar tracked over waters below 26 °C (79 °F). Around 0000 UTC on October 18, Omar weakened to a tropical storm as deep convection associated with it dissipated. Twelve hours later, while still producing tropical storm-force winds, the storm degenerated into a remnant low pressure area. The remnants of Omar persisted until 0600 UTC on October 21 when it dissipated about 805 mi (1,295 km) west of the Azores.[1]
Preparations
On October 15, the governor of the United States Virgin Islands announced the final preparations for Hurricane Omar as he signed a State of Emergency declaration for the territory. Public schools would be closed on October 16. All non-essential workers would be dismissed at 10 a.m. local time. At 6 p.m. curfew was put in place for the same day. Only those with valid passes would be allowed to be out after the curfew was put in place. That same day, a Hurricane Warning and flash flood watch were put in place in anticipation of hurricane-force winds and torrential rains from Omar. The American Red Cross planned to open shelters throughout the islands before the hurricane struck. Sandbags were also being distributed in St. Croix.[9] A large oil refinery, which produces 500,000 barrels per day (79,000 m3/d), was shut down and only necessary workers remained at the refinery.[10]
On Sint Maarten, officials advised residents to start all necessary actions to prepare for a hurricane. Residents were told to clear their yards of any debris or lose furniture that could become airborne during the storm, place shutters over windows and doors and assist elderly neighbors with shuttering their homes, and mariners should find a safe haven. A curfew from 10:00 p.m. on October 15 to 10:00 a.m. on October 16 was put in place. Due to the possibility of flash flooding, residents were to unclog and free up all waterways around their homes. Officials also warned people to stay away from areas prone to landslides until the "all-clear" was given. Owners of livestock were advised to have insured that they were secured in holding areas. As a precaution, the water supply would be shut down from 8:00 p.m. October 15 to 8:00 a.m. October 16. Four public areas, St. Peters Community Center, Dutch Quarter Community Center, Genevieve de Weever School, and the Salvation Army building would be used as emergency shelters.[11]
All public activities, flights, and schools were either closed or canceled on Puerto Rico. Eighteen shelters were open on the eastern part of the island.[10] Also, on Anguilla, residents in the Sandy Ground, Valley Bottom, Welches and Mount Fortune areas were placed under evacuation orders. Shelters were opened throughout the island for those in need of shelter. Schools and government offices were also closed and visitors were told to leave the island.[12]
Impact
![Animated satellite loop of a hurricane intensifying and weakening over a 24-hour span. The images are from a colorized infrared satellite.](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b3/Omar_IR_loop.gif/220px-Omar_IR_loop.gif)
Omar produced moderate damage throughout numerous islands, amounting to at least $60 million (2008 USD) and one death was related to the storm.
While it was moving little over the south-central Caribbean, Omar brought prolonged tropical storm conditions to the ABC Islands. Sustained winds to near gale force battered the islands, although peak gusts to 58 mph (92 km/h) were confined to Bonaire. In 24 hours, a maximum precipitation total of 4.0 in (102 mm) was recorded on Aruba, while 1.7 in (43 mm) and 1.5 in (41 mm) of rain fell in Curaçao and Bonaire, respectively. The high winds damaged roofs on all three islands, and rough seas caused beach erosion and significant damage to coastal facilities. Some rain damage also occurred, with significant flooding reported in some parts of Aruba.[13] In the SSS Islands (Saba, St. Eustatius, and Sint Maarten) strong winds from Omar, gusting up to 76 mph (122 km/h), and high waves caused significant damage and coastal flooding. On Sint Maarten, rainfall from the storm totaled to 5.4 in (139.4 mm).[14] Damage in Sint Maarten was mainly limited to beach erosion and scattered power outages.[15]
The island of Dominica suffered severe damage from Hurricane Omar. The village of Scotts Head, with a population of 450, was cut off from the rest of the country as roads were extensively damaged. The village also suffered water losses, electricity shortage, and landline telephones were cut off. Ports throughout the country were severely damaged. All barge access for hauling sand and stones were destroyed. The airport also sustained some damage. Seven boats ran aground during the storm.[16] Minor damage was reported in Anguilla. Two hotels sustained roof damage, downed treed knocked down power lines causing scattered power outages, and the rough seas caused severe beach erosion. Three cargo ships and seven boats ran aground and two other boats sank.[17]
In Antigua and Barbuda, winds from Omar were recorded at 40 mph, with gusts to 48 mph. Intense squall lines brought torrential rains, falling at rates of 2 in (50.8 mm) at times, peaking at 2.22 in (56.4 mm) per hour from 0900 UTC to 1200 UTC on October 16. The maximum recorded rainfall was 9.1 in (232.6 mm) however, up to 11 in (279.4 mm) was estimated to have fallen in the mountains. Storm Surge was estimated at 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m) with waves reaching 5–8 ft (1.5–2.4 m) in height. Nine homes were destroyed and several landslides were reported. No fatalities were associated with Omar, and only a few sustained minor injuries. The most severe damage was dealt to roads and agriculture due to flooding.[18] Seventy-five people were forced to evacuate to shelters as their homes were flooded.[19] Several farms were washed away, including their livestock. Numerous farmers lost their harvest due to flooding.[20] Damages in Barbuda were estimated at $18 million.[18] Agricultural losses in Antigua amounted to around $11 million (2008 USD)[21] and property damage amounted to $25 million.[22]
![A large tree knocked over on a fence. The ground throughout the image is wet and near the tree, it is torn by the roots.](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/50/Hurricane_Omar_damage_in_Aurba.jpg/220px-Hurricane_Omar_damage_in_Aurba.jpg)
In Puerto Rico, a man died after he collapsed from cardiac arrest while trying to install storm shutters on his home.[23] As a tropical wave, the precedent to Omar produced heavy rains over the island, causing minor flooding.[24] After passing by Puerto Rico a second time, Omar produced locally heavy rains, which caused minor street flooding.[25]
On St. Croix, waves up to 15 ft (4.5 m) from Omar sank about 47 boats,[26] leading to a large oil spill around the islands. About 400 ships broke lose from the docks, 200 of which lost their anchors.[27] Omar produced upwards of 7 in (177.8 mm) of rain on the island within a 24‑hour span. Although St. Croix was brushed by the eyewall, sustained winds reached 53 mph (85 km/h) with gusts to 72 mph (116 km/h).[26] Three people needed to be rescued when their ship struck a reef and began to sink. Most of the islands 55,000 residents were without power as over 100 utility poles were destroyed. Damages on the island were estimated at $700,000 with another $1 million in clean-up costs.[27] St. Thomas, one of the hardest hit islands, was left completely without power in the wake of the hurricane. All of the major intersections were shut down as traffic lights were either on the ground or without power. Damages on the island totaled to $5.3 million.[28]
In the Gros Islet Quarter on St. Lucia, rough seas damaged a jetty and grounded a yacht. In Soufrière, four homes were destroyed by the storm surge, which also made some areas impassible. The storm surge also flooded parts of the Anse la Raye Quarter, leading to officials declaring a mandatory evacuation of the area.[29] On Montserrat, very little damage was reported. A few minor landslides occurred in rural areas; no impact was caused by them.[17] On Nevis there was relatively little damage although the beachfront part of the Four Seasons Resort was severely damaged and was subsequently closed for an extended period.[30] Throughout St. Kitts and Nevis, damage was estimated at $19 million.[31]
Aftermath
![Colorized infrared satellite image of a hurricane. The storm, is in the top right portion of the image and has a poorly defined eye. A red mass, depicting strong convective activity, is present along the eastern side of the storm.](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/0e/IR_RB_Omar_08162008_0645.jpg/220px-IR_RB_Omar_08162008_0645.jpg)
The damage dealt to the agricultural sector of Antigua and Barbuda fueled major concerns for "food security" in 2009. The government allocated about $33,897,420 to help develop and repair the industry. Significant expansions of croplands were discussed, 15,000 ft2 (4572 m2) area, to help promote growth of the sector.[32]
On October 29, in the wake of Omar, President George W. Bush signed a major disaster declaration for the United States Virgin Islands, allowing public aid to assist the islands. The Federal Emergency Management Agency or FEMA, had received 60 requests for public assistance throughout the area. Monetary value for the assistance was estimated at $3 million and growing. Twenty-five departments and agencies were approved of for federal support, namely the U.S. V.I. Department of Public Works. Several non-profit organizations also received support from FEMA, while those that did not meet the criteria were referred to the Small Business Administration’s low-interest loan program.[33]
On Dominica, Omar's close pass to the island left 30 families homeless and severely hampered the fishing community. On December 15, the Board of Directors of the Caribbean Development Bank approved $9.16 million for assistance to those affected by Omar on the island and to restore the infrastructure damaged by the hurricane.[34] On December 18, the government of Dominica invested $4 million in aid for the fishing communities impacted by Omar. A total of 140 fishermen were provided with $250 per week for a total of four weeks. Sixty-two of which continued to receive funds due to their circumstances. The government also purchased 121 boat engines to distribute to fishers. Another $794,000 was spent to repair 47 boats and construct another 28 that had been damaged or destroyed by Omar. The government also bought replacement fishing gear.[35]
See also
- Hurricane Lenny – took a similar unusual west to east track in the Caribbean
- List of South America tropical cyclones
- List of Category 4 Atlantic hurricanes
References
- ^ a b c d e f g h John L. Beven II and Chris Landsea (February 3, 2009). "Hurricane Omar Tropical Cyclone Report" (PDF). National Hurricane Center. Retrieved February 4, 2009.
- ^ Avila (October 13, 2008). "Tropical Depression Fifteen Discussion One". National Hurricane Center. Retrieved February 4, 2009.
- ^ Stewart (October 14, 2008). "Tropical Storm Omar Discussion Five". National Hurricane Center. Retrieved February 4, 2009.
- ^ Stewart (October 14, 2008). "Tropical Storm Omar Discussion Six". National Hurricane Center. Retrieved February 4, 2009.
- ^ Franklin (October 15, 2008). "Hurricane Omar Discussion Seven". National Hurricane Center. Retrieved February 7, 2009.
- ^ Pasch (October 15, 2008). "Hurricane Omar Discussion Eight". National Hurricane Center. Retrieved February 7, 2009.
- ^ Stewart (October 15, 2008). "Hurricane Omar Discussion Nine". National Hurricane Center. Retrieved February 7, 2009.
- ^ Beven (October 16, 2008). "Hurricane Omar Discussion Eleven". National Hurricane Center. Retrieved February 7, 2009.
- ^ Gregory R. Francis (October 15, 2008). "Virgin Islands Government Makes Final Preparations For Anticipated Impact of Hurricane Omar". Government of the United States Virgin Islands. Retrieved December 22, 2008. [dead link]
- ^ a b "Hurricane Omar lashes Virgin Islands". ABC News Australia. October 17, 2008. Retrieved December 22, 2008.
- ^ Roddy Heyliger (October 15, 2008). "Press Statement Hurricane Omar October 15th 2008". Emergency Operations Center. Retrieved December 22, 2008. [dead link]
- ^ "Hurricane Omar Closes in on Northern Leeward Islands, BVI". The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency. October 15, 2008. Archived from the original on December 22, 2008. Retrieved December 22, 2008.
{{cite web}}
: Unknown parameter|deadurl=
ignored (|url-status=
suggested) (help) - ^ "Effects of Hurricane Omar on the ABC and SSS Islands" (PDF). Meteorological Service Netherlands Antilles and Aruba. 2008. Retrieved 2011-10-26.
- ^ "Effects of Hurricane Omar on the ABC and SSS Islands" (PDF). Meteorological Service Netherlands, Antilles, and Aruba. 2008. Retrieved December 22, 2008. [dead link]
- ^ The Government of St. Maarten (October 16, 2008). "St. Maarten Emerges Unscathed After Passage of Hurricane Omar". Wall Street Journal. Retrieved December 22, 2008.
- ^ Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency (October 16, 2008). "Hurricane Omar Situation Report #2". Reliefweb. Retrieved December 21, 2008.
- ^ a b "Hurricane Omar impacts five CDERA Participating States". Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency. October 16, 2008. Retrieved December 22, 2008.
- ^ a b Dale Destin (October 31, 2008). "Hurricane Omar Antigua and Barbuda Tropical Cyclone Report" (PDF). Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service. Archived from the original (PDF) on February 25, 2009. Retrieved December 21, 2008.
- ^ Anika Kentish (October 17, 2008). "Omar floods homes, damages crops in Antigua". Orlando Sentinel. Archived from the original on December 22, 2008. Retrieved December 22, 2008.
{{cite web}}
: Unknown parameter|deadurl=
ignored (|url-status=
suggested) (help) - ^ Brian Ho (October 20, 2008). "Heavy Crop Loss …Massiah says assistance needed for farmers following Omar". Antigua Sun. Retrieved December 22, 2008.
- ^ Brian Ho (2008). "Agricultural losses amount to $11M". Antigua Sun. Retrieved December 21, 2008.
- ^ "Our million dollar roads". Antigua Sun. November 28, 2008. Retrieved December 21, 2008.
- ^ Associated Press (October 16, 2008). "Category 3 Hurricane Omar Slams Northern Caribbean". Fox News. Retrieved December 22, 2008.
- ^ "NCDC Event Report: Puerto Rico Rain". National Climatic Data Center. 2009. Retrieved March 16, 2009.
- ^ John Marino (October 16, 2008). "Hurricane Omar weakens after surging into Atlantic". Reuters. Retrieved March 18, 2009.
- ^ a b "NCDC Event Report: St. Croix Flood". National Climatic Data Center. 2009. Retrieved March 18, 2009.
- ^ a b Steve Bullock (2008). "Oil spills spreading in St. Croix after Hurricane Omar destroyed 40 boats". Fox40. Retrieved December 22, 2008.
- ^ Aldeth Lewin (October 22, 2008). "Omar's damage estimate now at $5.3 million". The Virgin Islands Daily News. Archived from the original on December 22, 2008. Retrieved December 22, 2008.
{{cite web}}
: Unknown parameter|deadurl=
ignored (|url-status=
suggested) (help) - ^ A. L. Dawn French and Chamberlain Emmanuel (October 20, 2008). "Waves of Hurricane Omar" (PDF). National Emergency Management Organisation. Retrieved December 21, 2008.
- ^ Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency (October 16, 2008). "Hurricane Omar impacts five CDERA participating states". ReliefWeb. Retrieved May 12, 2009.
- ^ International Monetary Fund (May 16, 2009). "IMF Executive Board Approves US$3.4 Million in Emergency Natural Disaster Assistance for St. Kitts and Nevis". The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency. Retrieved April 24, 2010.
- ^ "Agriculture ministry to get over $30M, says Cort". Antigua Sun. December 3, 2008. Retrieved December 21, 2008.
- ^ Susan Mann (December 18, 2008). "USVI had costly face-off with Hurricane Omar". Caribbean Net News. Retrieved December 21, 2008.
- ^ "CDB lends Dominica over US$9 million". Antigua Sun. December 15, 2008. Retrieved December 21, 2008.
- ^ Sean Douglas (December 18, 2008). "Fishermen to benefit from revamp in fisheries sector". Dominica News. Retrieved December 21, 2008.
External links
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/4/4a/Commons-logo.svg/30px-Commons-logo.svg.png)
- 2008 in the Caribbean
- 2008 Atlantic hurricane season
- Category 4 Atlantic hurricanes
- Hurricanes in the United States Virgin Islands
- Hurricanes in the British Virgin Islands
- Hurricanes in the Leeward Islands
- Hurricanes in Saint Martin
- Hurricanes in Sint Maarten
- Hurricanes in Antigua and Barbuda
- Barbuda
- Hurricanes in the ABC Islands