Mirador, this is a large occluded low pressure system, centered off the South East US near 31 North 75 West. This system has an impressively large circulation but not much deep moisture.
Very strong winds, with a tight pressure gradient between the low and the strong high pressure ridge, over and off the NorthEast US coastline. This pressure gradient is producing hurricane force winds North of the area and East of the Carolina coast line and storm force conditions North of 28 North. Winds should slowly subside from now on - this one looks scary, high winds, and dumps a stack of water in a short time. But is not developing into a serious system.
I must tell you, I've never in 15 years seen something with these characteristics so early in the season, so far North - but I should also say, I have not studied this system. This is a quick first glance.
In the DR is an offshoot of Easterly moving winds, creating moisture on the North Coast ... it is the result of a 'backdoor' cold front associated with a large Western Atlantic low, pushing slowly southward, across the Central Bahamas and Northern Shore of Cuba. There are isolated showers along this boundary. No characteristics here besides normal tropical storm or tropical front.
Tropical storms can be very scary for the uninitiated, they can cause serious mudslides and catastrophic floods and all the damage one associates with high winds. Do remember, between a tropical storm and a Cat 1 hurricane, there is 1 mile difference in wind speed.
My usual weather advisories, started testing yesterday to get ready for season. So, I started my preparation phase a few days ago and will be on track and up to date soon here.
Geez, I got lazy during the previous slack season!
