Tropical Storm Rafael Forms in the Caribbean Sea
What You Need To Know
• Tropical Storm Rafael has formed in the Caribbean Sea
• It will strengthen into a hurricane
• Rafael will move into the Gulf by midweek
Rafael is in the Caribbean Sea with maximum winds of 45 mph and is moving northward. It’s moving through an area of low wind shear and warm sea surface temperatures, so development conditions are favorable through midweek.
Impact on the Region
It’s going to begin to bring areas of heavy rainfall and winds to portions of the western Caribbean by early Tuesday, including Jamaica. Hurricane conditions are expected in the Cayman Islands on Tuesday and in a portion of Cuba on Wednesday, where it is expected to make landfall as a Category 1 storm.
Movement and Intensification
Rafael will move into the southern Gulf of Mexico by Wednesday. It will pass near the Florida Keys on Wednesday as it moves north. There is a lot of uncertainty in the long-range forecast of Rafael’s track and intensity, but strong upper-level winds in the Gulf of Mexico should limit its intensification as it moves toward the Gulf Coast.
Watches and Warnings
A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for Jamaica, and Hurricane Warnings are in effect for the Cayman Islands. Tropical Storm and Hurricane Watches are in effect for Cuba.
Conclusion
Tropical Storm Rafael is a developing system that will bring significant impacts to the Caribbean region in the coming days. It is essential to stay informed about the latest updates and forecasts to ensure your safety and well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the current status of Tropical Storm Rafael?
A: Tropical Storm Rafael is currently in the Caribbean Sea with maximum winds of 45 mph and is moving northward.
Q: Where will Tropical Storm Rafael make landfall?
A: It is expected to make landfall in a portion of Cuba on Wednesday as a Category 1 storm.
Q: What watches and warnings are in effect?
A: A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for Jamaica, and Hurricane Warnings are in effect for the Cayman Islands. Tropical Storm and Hurricane Watches are in effect for Cuba.
Q: What is the forecast for the rest of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season?
A: Check out our weather blogs section to stay up-to-date on the latest weather and climate stories.
