Hurricane Rafael Approaches Cuba Amid Storm Preparations
San Juan, Puerto Rico — Tropical Storm Rafael is on track to strengthen into a hurricane as it heads toward Cuba. As of Wednesday morning, the storm was located just 65 miles (105 kilometers) north-northeast of Grand Cayman, with maximum sustained winds reaching 85 mph (140 kph). Forecasts indicate that Rafael is expected to hit western Cuba later today as a Category 2 hurricane.
This situation adds to the ongoing difficulties faced by Cuba, which is still recovering from another hurricane that struck two weeks ago, resulting in six fatalities in the eastern region of the island. The wireless systems are still struggling, with many areas dealing with frequent blackouts.
Current Warning and Precautions
The U.S. State Department issued a travel advisory on Tuesday, stating that Americans should reconsider traveling to Cuba due to the impending impact of the storm. The advisory also offered assistance for non-essential personnel to leave the island.
On the ground in Cuba, the Civil Defense authorities are urging residents to prepare promptly. They emphasized the importance of staying sheltered once the storm makes landfall. This follows a previously issued evacuation order impacting around 37,000 residents in the eastern province of Guantanamo due to prior weather conditions.
Storm Warnings in Effect
As of now, a hurricane warning is in place for several regions including the Cayman Islands and the Cuban provinces of Pinar del Rio, Artemisa, La Habana, Mayabeque, Matanzas, and the Isle of Youth. Additionally, a tropical storm warning applies to the provinces of Villa Clara, Cienfuegos, Sancti Spiritus, and Ciego de Avila, as well as parts of the lower and middle Florida Keys, including Key West and Dry Tortugas.
In the Cayman Islands, schools and government offices have closed, and residents are being advised to prepare for the storm’s arrival. Reports indicate long lines at grocery stores as people stock up on supplies.
Heavy Rainfall and Flooding Concerns
Forecasters warn that Rafael is likely to bring heavy rainfall across the western Caribbean, raising fears of flooding and mudslides, especially in Cuba and the Cayman Islands. The storm is also expected to push rain into several regions of Florida and the southeastern United States later this week.
Specific predictions for Florida indicate storm surges could reach between 1 to 3 feet in Dry Tortugas and 1 to 2 feet in the Lower Florida Keys. There are also chances of a few tornadoes developing over the Keys and southwestern Florida on Wednesday.
Seasonal Context
Hurricane Rafael marks the 17th named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season, which has been predicted to be notably active this year. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has indicated the possibility of experiencing between 17 and 25 named storms this season, which could include up to 13 hurricanes and potentially four major hurricanes. Normally, an average season sees around 14 named storms.
As the storm progresses, residents across affected areas are urged to stay informed and heed updates from local authorities. Preparations remain crucial to ensure safety during this challenging weather event.
Residents in Cuba and the Caribbean are currently watching the developments unfold closely as the region braces for what is expected to be a significant weather event.
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
