The tropical storm known as Rafael is intensifying in the Caribbean, near the shores of Jamaica, as it moves northwest towards Cuba at a speed of 12 mph. According to the seventh advisory issued by the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC), the storm's center is positioned at latitude 17.0 North and longitude 78.0 West. This places Rafael approximately 105 miles southwest of Kingston, Jamaica, and 264 miles southeast of the Cayman Islands.
Rafael's sustained winds have increased to 59 mph, and further strengthening is anticipated in the coming hours, given the favorable conditions for its development this Tuesday. The NHC warns that Rafael might escalate into a hurricane as it approaches Cuba, potentially hitting the archipelago's coast with significant force by Wednesday.
Warnings and Alerts Issued for Rafael
The NHC has issued various alerts, anticipating hazardous conditions in the upcoming days:
Hurricane Warning: In effect for the Cayman Islands and the Cuban provinces of Pinar del Río, Artemisa, Havana, Mayabeque, Matanzas, and Isla de la Juventud.
Tropical Storm Warning: In effect for Jamaica and the Cuban provinces of Villa Clara, Cienfuegos, Sancti Spíritus, and Ciego de Ávila.
Tropical Storm Watch: Issued for the Cuban provinces of Camagüey and Las Tunas, as well as the Florida Keys from Key West to the west of the Channel 5 Bridge and the Dry Tortugas.
The hurricane warning indicates that adverse conditions are expected in the mentioned areas within approximately 36 hours. Residents are urged to take immediate precautions to safeguard lives and property. Cubans should stay informed about the evolution of Tropical Storm Rafael, as it is likely to intensify further in the coming hours.
Potential Impacts and Effects of Rafael in the Caribbean
Rafael could cause significant disruptions across various parts of the western Caribbean, especially in Cuba, where the following impacts are anticipated:
Winds: The Cayman Islands are expected to experience hurricane conditions this afternoon, while western Cuba, including Isla de la Juventud, could face hurricane-force winds by Wednesday. Jamaica may endure tropical storm conditions until later today.
Rainfall: Heavy rainfall is predicted, with totals ranging from 3 to 6 inches in Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, and western Cuba, with isolated amounts of up to 10 inches in mountainous regions, heightening the risk of flash floods and landslides.
Storm Surges: A minor coastal flood is anticipated in Jamaica tonight. In the Cayman Islands, sea level rise could reach 1 to 3 feet above normal tide levels. In southern Cuba, the combination of storm surge and tide could elevate sea levels by 6 to 9 feet in areas under alert, including Isla de la Juventud.
Call for Caution: Rafael Approaches Cuba
As Rafael advances, the National Hurricane Center urges residents in affected areas to finalize their preparations as soon as possible. Local authorities and Cuba's Meteorological Institute advise close monitoring of the situation due to the risk of severe weather conditions that could endanger lives and property.
Additionally, there is a warning about the potential for tornadoes in the Florida Keys and the southwestern Florida peninsula on Wednesday, which could further complicate the situation in the region.