The National Hurricane Center (NHC) announced on Wednesday that the eye of Hurricane Rafael is approaching the southern coast of western Cuba. Using the social media platform X, the NHC stated, "Rafael is nearing western Cuba and is expected to make landfall within the next few hours."
The center added that the "next update will be provided in the complete advisory at 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time," as per their official release.
Current Location and Path
The Forecast Center of the Institute of Meteorology reported in its 3:00 p.m. bulletin that the hurricane's center was positioned at 22.4 degrees North latitude and 82.6 degrees West longitude. This places it 35 kilometers south-southwest of Playa Cajío and 60 kilometers southeast of San Cristóbal, both in Artemisa province.
INSMET noted, "The system has maintained a northwestern track at a speed of 22 kilometers per hour over the past few hours." Additionally, it highlighted that Hurricane Rafael has been rapidly gaining strength throughout the afternoon, with sustained winds reaching up to 185 kilometers per hour, classifying it as a major Category 3 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson scale. The hurricane's central pressure has fallen to 956 hPa, indicating intensification.
Impact on Cuba
The impact of Hurricane Rafael is already being felt across various parts of Cuba. In Havana, for instance, several areas are experiencing rainfall. The state-run newspaper El Artemiseño posted on Facebook, "The eye wall is approaching the western coast of Cuba. In the next two hours, very strong wind gusts will move inland in parts of Artemisa."
Furthermore, Cuban media outlets have activated phone lines for the public to stay informed during Hurricane Rafael's passage. The numbers provided are: Radio Reloj at 80073565; Radio 26 at 45247927 or 18899; Radio Ciudad del Mar at 43510090 or 18899; Radio Cadena Agramonte at 18899; and Radio Mayabeque at 18899. These lines offer real-time updates and safety advice.
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