Hurricane Rafael Strengthens, Targets Cuba Amid Ongoing Storm Recovery Efforts

Hurricane Rafael Approaches Cuba Amid Storm Preparations

San Juan, Puerto Rico — Tropical Storm Rafael is on track to strengthen into a hurricane as it heads toward Cuba. As of Wednesday morning, the storm was located just 65 miles (105 kilometers) north-northeast of Grand Cayman, with maximum sustained winds reaching 85 mph (140 kph). Forecasts indicate that Rafael is expected to hit western Cuba later today as a Category 2 hurricane.

This situation adds to the ongoing difficulties faced by Cuba, which is still recovering from another hurricane that struck two weeks ago, resulting in six fatalities in the eastern region of the island. The wireless systems are still struggling, with many areas dealing with frequent blackouts.

Current Warning and Precautions

The U.S. State Department issued a travel advisory on Tuesday, stating that Americans should reconsider traveling to Cuba due to the impending impact of the storm. The advisory also offered assistance for non-essential personnel to leave the island.

On the ground in Cuba, the Civil Defense authorities are urging residents to prepare promptly. They emphasized the importance of staying sheltered once the storm makes landfall. This follows a previously issued evacuation order impacting around 37,000 residents in the eastern province of Guantanamo due to prior weather conditions.

Storm Warnings in Effect

As of now, a hurricane warning is in place for several regions including the Cayman Islands and the Cuban provinces of Pinar del Rio, Artemisa, La Habana, Mayabeque, Matanzas, and the Isle of Youth. Additionally, a tropical storm warning applies to the provinces of Villa Clara, Cienfuegos, Sancti Spiritus, and Ciego de Avila, as well as parts of the lower and middle Florida Keys, including Key West and Dry Tortugas.

In the Cayman Islands, schools and government offices have closed, and residents are being advised to prepare for the storm’s arrival. Reports indicate long lines at grocery stores as people stock up on supplies.

Heavy Rainfall and Flooding Concerns

Forecasters warn that Rafael is likely to bring heavy rainfall across the western Caribbean, raising fears of flooding and mudslides, especially in Cuba and the Cayman Islands. The storm is also expected to push rain into several regions of Florida and the southeastern United States later this week.

Specific predictions for Florida indicate storm surges could reach between 1 to 3 feet in Dry Tortugas and 1 to 2 feet in the Lower Florida Keys. There are also chances of a few tornadoes developing over the Keys and southwestern Florida on Wednesday.

Seasonal Context

Hurricane Rafael marks the 17th named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season, which has been predicted to be notably active this year. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has indicated the possibility of experiencing between 17 and 25 named storms this season, which could include up to 13 hurricanes and potentially four major hurricanes. Normally, an average season sees around 14 named storms.

As the storm progresses, residents across affected areas are urged to stay informed and heed updates from local authorities. Preparations remain crucial to ensure safety during this challenging weather event.

Residents in Cuba and the Caribbean are currently watching the developments unfold closely as the region braces for what is expected to be a significant weather event.