Florida residents along the Gulf Coast are being urged to monitor Tropical Storm Rafael as it strengthens in the Caribbean and heads towards the U.S.
The Florida Division of Emergency Management is advising residents to stay informed and be prepared for potential impacts from the storm. Rafael is expected to become a hurricane before reaching the Cayman Islands and western Cuba, with tropical storm conditions possible in the Florida Keys as early as Wednesday.
READ: Tropical Storm Rafael To Become Hurricane, Threaten US Gulf Coast By Weekend
While the National Hurricane Center cautions that it’s too early to predict the storm’s exact path and impact on the northern Gulf Coast, AccuWeather forecasts the highest probability of landfall on the eastern Louisiana coast.
However, the storm’s track could shift, potentially bringing it ashore anywhere from the Florida Panhandle to the upper Texas coast.
“Rafael is going to encounter a fork in the road on Thursday,” explained AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jon Porter. “Once the storm passes over Cuba and reaches the Gulf of Mexico, it will either track to the west or be drawn to the north. A westward track would greatly reduce the risk of U.S. impacts. If Rafael continues moving to the northwest, we could see a landfall between Louisiana to Florida.”
Residents in the potential path of the storm are encouraged to monitor forecasts closely, prepare for possible impacts, and follow any guidance issued by local officials.
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.