Hurricane Rafael, now a Category 2 storm, is moving west across the Gulf of Mexico, possibly weakening to a tropical storm by Sunday. After a damaging landfall in Cuba, where it was a Category 3 hurricane, the storm may create dangerous surf conditions in the Gulf. A 20% chance of new tropical development in the region has also been noted.
Hurricane Rafael, currently classified as a Category 2 storm, is projected to drift westward across the Gulf of Mexico in the upcoming days. The environment it will encounter is characterized by significant wind shear, arid air, and cooler marine temperatures, which are expected to contribute to a weakening of the storm’s intensity. Forecasts by the National Hurricane Center indicate that as Rafael approaches the Mexican coastline by Sunday, it may downgrade to a tropical storm. In an update provided on Thursday morning, the tropical storm warning for the Dry Tortugas was lifted, and no further watches or warnings are in effect. Authorities have cautioned that Rafael could generate perilous surf and rip current conditions across the Gulf region. Previously, on Wednesday, Rafael made landfall in western Cuba as a Category 3 hurricane, severely impacting the country’s already strained electrical infrastructure. This follows the devastation from Hurricane Oscar earlier in October, which claimed eight lives and ravaged approximately 20,000 homes. Moreover, the hurricane center has reduced the likelihood of a new tropical system forming to the north of Puerto Rico and Haiti, indicating only a 20% chance of development over the next week. The subsequent name on the Atlantic hurricane list is Sara.
The article discusses Hurricane Rafael, focusing on its current status, expected trajectory, and potential impact. It contextualizes the hurricane’s influence on Cuba, including its recent landfall and the resulting power outages. It also addresses the conditions that may hinder the storm’s intensity as it moves across the Gulf of Mexico and provides updates on other tropical disturbances in the area. Understanding these developments is essential for preparedness and response in affected regions.
In summary, Hurricane Rafael is anticipated to journey across the Gulf of Mexico, facing conditions that may diminish its strength. The storm’s recent impact on Cuba illustrates the severity of hurricanes in the region. Updating forecasts and maintaining vigilance against hazardous surf conditions remain crucial as officials monitor Rafael’s progression and potential developments in other tropical disturbances.
Original Source: www.tampabay.com
