Hurricane Rafael has strengthened in the Gulf of Mexico after making landfall in Cuba, where it caused widespread damage and power outages. Currently categorized as a Category 3 hurricane, Rafael is expected to weaken but remains a concern for the U.S. Gulf Coast and possibly the Mexican coast in the coming days.
Hurricane Rafael has intensified in the Gulf of Mexico after impacting Cuba as a major hurricane on Wednesday. As of the latest assessment by the National Hurricane Center (NHC), Rafael is classified as a Category 3 hurricane, exhibiting potentially fluctuating intensity. By Friday evening, a trend of gradual weakening is anticipated as the hurricane moves west at 9 mph, currently located about 245 miles north-northeast of Progreso, Mexico, with maximum sustained winds of 120 mph. Cuba and portions of the western Caribbean have experienced significant damage due to Rafael, with hurricane-force winds, torrential rainfall, and dangerous storm surges reported. A weather station in Havana indicated wind gusts reaching 93 mph at the time of landfall. The storm has disrupted power across Cuba, leaving millions without electricity as conditions began to improve following the storm’s departure. As Rafael continues its path over the Gulf of Mexico, millions along the U.S. Gulf Coast remain vigilant. Predictions from the FOX Forecast Center suggest that, although weakening is expected as the storm encounters drier air and stronger wind shear, there remains some uncertainty. If the hurricane maintains its strength, the Mexican coast may face potential threats in the coming week.
Hurricane Rafael surfaced as a significant weather event, intensifying in the Gulf of Mexico after previously making landfall in Cuba. The impacts of such hurricanes have pronounced effects, including severe wind damage and flooding. Understanding the path and intensity of hurricanes is crucial for preparedness and response measures, particularly for coastal communities. The National Hurricane Center provides ongoing forecasts that are instrumental in tracking the storm’s development and trajectory, which are critical for officials and residents in affected areas.
In summary, Hurricane Rafael has transformed into a formidable hurricane since impacting Cuba, causing extensive damage and power outages. While it is currently a Category 3 storm in the Gulf of Mexico, forecasts suggest a weakening trend as it progresses. Coastal communities in the U.S. and Mexico must maintain vigilance as the path of the hurricane unfolds, with predictions indicating both uncertainty and caution moving into the coming days.
Original Source: www.fox13news.com
