Hurricane Rafael: A Storm to Watch

On Wednesday, Hurricane Rafael got stronger, reaching Category 3 status. This means it has winds between 111 to 129 mph, making it a major hurricane. Rafael is expected to move over the southeastern Gulf of Mexico by nighttime and across the Gulf this weekend. Forecasters warn that Rafael could bring dangerous storm surges, strong winds, and flash flooding to parts of western Cuba. A hurricane warning is in place for five Cuban provinces and the Isle of Youth. A tropical storm warning is also active for other Cuban provinces and parts of the Florida Keys. Hurricane conditions are expected in western Cuba on Wednesday night. Heavy rainfall is forecast across the western Caribbean, with Cuba expecting 4 to 8 inches, and possibly up to 12 inches in higher areas. This could lead to flash flooding and mudslides. The storm surge might raise water levels by 9 to 14 feet above normal tide levels in certain areas. In the U. S. , tropical storm conditions are likely in the lower and middle Florida Keys on Wednesday evening. Rainfall totals of 1 to 3 inches are expected there. Additionally, several tornadoes could occur through Wednesday evening over the Florida Keys and far southwestern Florida mainland.