Tropical Storm Rafael has been upgraded to a Category 1 hurricane with winds of 75 mph and is heading towards western Cuba. This comes as Cuba is still recovering from a recent hurricane that resulted in six deaths. The storm is expected to bring heavy rainfall, leading to potential flooding and mudslides in the region.
Tropical Storm Rafael intensified into a Category 1 hurricane, demonstrating maximum sustained winds of 75 mph while approaching western Cuba. As it moved northwest at 15 mph, the storm loomed ominously over the Caribbean, following closely on the heels of another hurricane that had previously devastated Cuba, resulting in six fatalities just two weeks prior. The hurricane’s trajectory is expected to lead to significant rain and the potential for flooding and mudslides, particularly impacting Jamaica and the Cayman Islands before making landfall in Cuba.
The development of Tropical Storm Rafael into a hurricane marks a troubling period for the Caribbean, especially Cuba, still in recovery from its recent hurricane catastrophe. With the island facing ongoing challenges including power outages, the impending impact of Rafael raises concerns for additional damage and hardship. Meteorological tracking has placed the storm in the vicinity of the Cayman Islands, while forecasters predict its damaging effects will directly reach Cuba soon.
With Tropical Storm Rafael evolving into a Category 1 hurricane, it poses a significant threat to Cuba, which is still grappling with the aftermath of a recent hurricane disaster. As local authorities prepare for the storm’s arrival, concerns heighten regarding flooding, mudslides, and overall economic recovery in the region. The situation remains fluid, and continued monitoring will be essential as Rafael approaches the island.
Original Source: chicago.suntimes.com
