Tropical Storm Karen Abruptly Forms. Will It Affect Vermont?

The news early this morning was that a disturbance south of Cuba might barely grow into a tropical storm, with 40 mph winds. No big deal, right?

Some computer models bring
the remnants of Tropical Storm Karen
to New England early next week.  

However, a quick check by hurricane hunters by 8 a.m. unexpectedly found a strong tropical storm packing winds of 60 mph.

It's officially Tropical Storm Karen. Tropical storm warnings and hurricane watches are going up along the northern Gulf Coast of the United States as Karen heads northward.

Judging from the weather charts, the remnants of Karen might well affect Vermont. After it comes ashore somewhere between Louisiana and the Florida panhandle, it'll weaken but still be loaded with moisture as it heads northeastward ahead of a Midwestern cold front.

Many computer models suggest Karen, which by that time won't be a tropical storm anymore, but still a vibrant storm system, will go right over New England early next week.

It'll pack heavy rains and gusty winds in Vermont if it comes through. I don't think Karen will be strong enough to cause severe flooding or major damage from the winds even if it scores a direct hit on Vermont.

But the timing of the storm couldn't be worse if it does hit. It's peak foliage, and wind and rain would strip many colorful leaves from the trees.

So far, we've been lucky in Vermont. We've had a lot of calm weather, with little rain, and the foliage is hanging in there spectacularly.

But just in case Karen hits, get your foliage pictures in by the weekend, in case Karen interferes with the beauty next week.