Extreme weather is hitting the Caribbean and southeastern U.S. at the same time, creating what experts call “one of the most chaotic weeks meteorologists have seen in years.” Multiple hazards — earthquakes, floods, dust plumes, and forming tropical storms — are happening at once.

The chain of events began with an earthquake near Trinidad that “rattled communities already anxious about the active storm season.” It wasn’t catastrophic, but it added stress to an already tense region.

Relentless flooding in Central America has submerged neighborhoods and destroyed infrastructure. Families are evacuating by boat, and emergency crews are “exhausted from nonstop rescue work” as water levels continue rising.

A massive Saharan dust plume is sweeping across Caribbean islands, reducing visibility and triggering air-quality alerts. It is coating everything in sand, and people with breathing issues are urged to stay indoors. The article notes “the density of this dust cloud makes the situation especially difficult.”

Meteorologists are tracking Tropical Storm Flossie and other disturbances over the Atlantic. With warm waters and favorable conditions, these systems may strengthen quickly. Forecasts warn of “heavy rainfall, flooding, strong winds, and possible storm surge.”

The biggest threat comes from these hazards overlapping. Hospitals are treating dust-related breathing problems while preparing for storm injuries, and emergency services are stretched thin. Officials urge residents to stay informed, prepare supplies, protect themselves from dust, know evacuation routes, and check on neighbors until conditions improve.