Cubans Bracing for Another Tropical Storm, Rafael

Caribbean Sea is facing more trouble as Tropical Storm Rafael gets stronger. Forecasters are worried it might become a hurricane on Wednesday, bringing high winds and rainfall. Florida Keys could be hit first, but don't worry, it's predicted to weaken before reaching the US Gulf Coast. This storm could bring storm surges and possible tornadoes. Rafael has already made life tough for Jamaica and is headed for Cuba. Remember Hurricane Oscar that hit Cuba recently? Cuba’s economy is already struggling, and another hurricane could make it even worse. Higher areas in Cuba and Jamaica might face flash flooding and mudslides. Although Rafael might weaken as it approaches the Gulf Coast, it could still bring heavy rain. Meteorologists think states like Louisiana and Mississippi could be affected. This would be unusual because these states haven’t seen a November hurricane in over 150 years! Rafael is the 17th named storm this Atlantic hurricane season. The season usually ends in November but has been very active this year. Scientists say warmer sea temperatures, caused by global warming, are making hurricanes more common. This season has already caused a lot of damage, like Hurricane Milton in Florida and Hurricane Helene in North Carolina.