Tropical Storm Rafael Advances Through Caribbean With Potential Gulf Coast Impacts

Tropical Storm Rafael is moving through the Caribbean, expected to strengthen into a hurricane and impact Cuba. The storm will approach the Florida Keys with gusty winds and rain, prompting a tropical storm watch, while its potential effects on the U.S. Gulf Coast remain uncertain.

Tropical Storm Rafael is currently advancing through the Caribbean, with significant implications for the U.S. Gulf Coast anticipated this weekend. On Tuesday morning, Rafael unleashed gusty winds and heavy rainfall upon Jamaica, signaling its approach. The storm is expected to gain strength and transition into a hurricane as it navigates over the Cayman Islands on Tuesday night. Forecasts indicate that Rafael will make landfall in Cuba on Wednesday evening as a Category 1 hurricane, potentially causing mudslides and damaging winds as it strikes the island. By Thursday morning, the outer bands of Rafael are projected to affect the Florida Keys, bringing with them gusty winds and persistent rainfall, for which a tropical storm watch has been issued. The storm’s trajectory indicates a slowdown by Friday morning as it moves into the Gulf of Mexico, although uncertainties remain regarding its impact on the U.S. Gulf Coast. Current model predictions present a dichotomy: some suggest Rafael could deliver significant rainfall to the Gulf Coast, while others indicate a diminished storm could veer towards Mexico. The Atlantic hurricane season is ongoing and will persist until November 30, 2023.

Understanding the behavior of Tropical Storm Rafael is crucial, especially during the Atlantic hurricane season, which lasts until late November. Each year, seasonal forecasts prepare communities for potential storms, highlighting the importance of tracking storms’ formations, paths, and intensities. Rafael’s current trajectory shows its impacts on multiple islands and the U.S. mainland, underscoring the necessity for preparedness in vulnerable regions.

Tropical Storm Rafael is making its way through the Caribbean with expectations of significant impacts along the U.S. Gulf Coast. As it transforms into a hurricane and approaches Cuba, the storm poses risks of mudslides and severe winds. While forecasts indicate possible rain effects on the Gulf Coast, the storm’s eventual path remains uncertain, highlighting the unpredictable nature of tropical systems and the importance of preparedness during hurricane season.

Original Source: abc13.com