MIAMI, FL (352today.com) – Hurricane Rafael has intensified in the Caribbean, with the National Hurricane Center (NHC) warning it could reach major hurricane status before making landfall in western Cuba. Currently positioned 60 miles east-southeast of the Isle of Youth, Rafael’s maximum sustained winds are near 110 mph, making it just shy of a Category 3 storm. The hurricane’s central pressure stands at 960 mb, and it is moving northwest at 14 mph.
The NHC reports Rafael’s path is expected to turn westward in the coming days. Forecasters anticipate landfall in Cuba on Wednesday before Rafael moves into the southeastern Gulf of Mexico by Wednesday night.
Key details include:
- Current Position and Strength: 60 miles east-southeast of Isle of Youth with sustained winds of 110 mph.
- Expected Track: Northwestward movement, shifting west toward Cuba on Wednesday; Gulf entry expected Wednesday night.
- Impact on Cuba: Expected to make landfall as a powerful hurricane in western Cuba.
- Impact on Florida: While North Central Florida should not experience direct impacts, the lower and middle Florida Keys are likely to feel tropical storm conditions starting Wednesday afternoon.
- Severe Weather Risks: Increased rain chances in parts of Florida on Wednesday and Thursday, with potential for isolated tornadoes in the Keys and southwestern Florida mainland.
Rafael’s impact will likely bring heavy rains and strong winds to Cuba and southwestern Florida, with increased humidity and a better rain chance in North Central Florida Wednesday and Thursday.