Tropical Storm Rafael has intensified into a hurricane, posing a significant threat to the Cayman Islands and western Cuba. The storm is expected to bring damaging hurricane-force winds, life-threatening storm surge, and destructive waves to these areas.
Hurricane Rafael:
Rafael is currently packing winds of 70 knots (80 mph) and is moving northwestward at 11 knots (13 mph). The storm is expected to continue on this track, passing through the Cayman Islands in the next few hours and then crossing western Cuba on Wednesday afternoon.
READ: AccuWeather Warns Of Potential Hurricane Threat To US Gulf Coast
Rapid Intensification:
Rafael is located in an environment conducive to further strengthening. Forecasters anticipate rapid intensification, with the storm potentially reaching Category 2 strength (winds of 96-110 mph) before reaching Cuba.
Potential Impacts:
- Cayman Islands: Hurricane conditions, including damaging winds, dangerous storm surge, and destructive waves, are expected within the next 12 hours.
- Cuba: Hurricane conditions are also expected in western Cuba and the Isle of Youth on Wednesday.
- Florida Keys: Tropical storm conditions are possible in the Lower and Middle Keys beginning Wednesday.
- Northern Gulf Coast: It is still too early to determine the potential impacts on the northern Gulf Coast, but residents should monitor the storm’s progress.
Heavy Rainfall:
Heavy rain is expected across portions of the western Caribbean, including Jamaica and Cuba, through early Thursday. This rainfall could lead to flash flooding and mudslides, particularly in higher terrain areas.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Android Users: Download our free app to stay up-to-date on the latest news.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.