Hurricane Rafael, a Category 2 storm, is forecasted to move west across the Gulf of Mexico, encountering conditions likely to weaken it. Following its landfall in Cuba as a Category 3 storm, which caused notable damage, it is expected to downgrade to a tropical storm by Sunday. Warnings for the Dry Tortugas were lifted, but hazardous surf conditions remain a concern.
Hurricane Rafael, currently classified as a Category 2 storm, is projected to move westward across the Gulf of Mexico over the upcoming days. This trajectory encounters harsher conditions compared to the Caribbean, including significant wind shear, dry air, and cooler sea temperatures, which may contribute to the storm’s degradation. Forecasts from the National Hurricane Center indicate that by the time Rafael approaches Mexico on Sunday, it may be downgraded to a tropical storm once again. On Thursday morning, the tropical storm warning for the Dry Tortugas was lifted, and no additional watches or warnings were in effect. However, meteorologists warn that life-threatening surf and rip current conditions are likely to persist across the Gulf due to the storm’s influence. Hurricane Rafael made a significant impact on western Cuba as a Category 3 hurricane on Wednesday, further straining the country’s already beleaguered electrical infrastructure. This comes shortly after Hurricane Oscar, another unanticipated storm, resulted in the loss of eight lives and the destruction of approximately 20,000 homes on the eastern side of Cuba in October. Additionally, the hurricane center has reduced the likelihood of a new tropical disturbance forming north of Puerto Rico and Haiti, now estimating a mere 20% chance of this disturbance evolving into a tropical depression within the next week. The next name on the hurricane list is Sara.
The article discusses the trajectory and expected weakening of Hurricane Rafael as it moves westward across the Gulf of Mexico following its landfall in Cuba. Information provided by the National Hurricane Center outlines the impacts of the storm on various regions, including potential hazards associated with surf and rip currents across the Gulf. Furthermore, it provides context on the storm’s previous impact on Cuba and updates on potential future disturbances in the Atlantic region.
In summary, Hurricane Rafael is expected to traverse the Gulf of Mexico while facing adverse conditions that may weaken it further. Despite the recent lifting of warnings in the Dry Tortugas, the storm presents ongoing risks, particularly in terms of dangerous surf and currents. The significant impact on Cuba highlights the necessity for vigilance as the season progresses, with the potential for future disturbances remaining a possibility.
Original Source: www.tampabay.com
