Hurricane Rafael Weakens, Now Expected to Pass U.S. Gulf Coast with Minimal Impact
Update on the Storm’s Track and Intensity
Hurricane Rafael weakened into a Category 2 storm after moving off the tip of Cuba, and forecasters now say it will likely make a turn to the west and diminish the threat to the U.S. Gulf coast, according to the National Hurricane Center.
Current Forecast Track
Here is the latest forecast track:
[Image: A graphic showing the predicted path of Hurricane Rafael]
Conditions to Weaken the Storm
Conditions are expected to further weaken the storm over the next several days, and it is forecast to become a tropical storm during the weekend as it spins in the western Gulf of Mexico.
Conclusion
As Hurricane Rafael continues to weaken, the threat to the U.S. Gulf coast is expected to diminish, bringing relief to residents and authorities. While the storm’s track is still subject to change, the current forecast suggests minimal impact to the U.S. Gulf coast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the current category of Hurricane Rafael?
A: Hurricane Rafael has weakened from a Category 3 to a Category 2 storm.
Q: What is the latest forecast track for Hurricane Rafael?
A: The storm is expected to continue westward, potentially becoming a tropical storm in the western Gulf of Mexico.
Q: What is the expected impact to the U.S. Gulf coast?
A: The threat to the U.S. Gulf coast is expected to diminish as the storm weakens and turns westward.
