Jamaican Floods

Tropical Storm Nicole has caused five deaths and that number is expected to rise.  The storm broke apart of the Atlantic Wednesday afternoon but continued rain has caused many landslides and is increasing the risk of more landslides.  Those who live in shantytowns are at the most risk because they are built on unstable banks of gullies.  The biggest concern is that as these gullies fill with water they will wash away buildings as three people have already been killed by collasping buildings, and seven are missing after being swept away by water.  Relief efforts are in place but the water is causing bridges to collaspe and streets to be unusable leaving many stranded. 



http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20100930/ap_on_re_la_am_ca/cb_jamaica_floods

Typhoon

The death toll from Typhoon Fanapi has risen to at least 55 along with 42 still missing and 3,600 destroyed homes.  Half a meter of rain has caused flooding and landslides that has forced around 100,000 to evacuate.  The military is currently trying to restore power repair roads and rescue stranded people.  This typhoon alone has caused over 300 million dollars in damage.  This year alone 3,100 people in China have died from flood related disasters.

Severe Storms in Wisconsin

A storm that spands from Kansas to Wisconsin is threatening to cause damage and flooding today.  With the help of moisture from pacific storm georgette thunderstorms, hail, strong winds, and flooding are expected today.  Golf ball size hail has the potential to damage windshields and crops across the Midwest, and strong winds will most likely down trees and power lines.  An even bigger concern is the threat of flash floods, especially in urban, low lying, and poor drainage areas.  A couple inches are expected so motorists have been advised to not drive through flooded areas.  The Eau Claire area is expected to have moderate to major flooding.

Hurricane Karl

There is a hurricane currently heading towards the east coast of Mexico.  Hurricane Karl, a category 1 hurricane, is about 140 miles east of Mexico and is expected to hit land around midday Friday.  As Karl heads towards the coast it is possible for it to reach major hurricane strength, which is when there are winds sustaining 111 mph.  This storm may raise water levels 6-9 feet above normal and cause 5-15 inches of rain.  While large and destructive waves will most likely hit the coast, Karl is expected to weaken quickly once it enters the moutains.