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Hurricane Rafael Intensifies, Threatens Caribbean and Florida
Tropical Storm Rafael strengthened into a Category 1 hurricane, prompting hurricane warnings for the Cayman Islands and Cuba. Heavy rain and potential tornadoes are expected in parts of Cuba and Florida.
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Climate ChangeWeatherStormHurricaneForecastWarning
National Hurricane Center
Michael Brennan
- What kind of precipitation is expected, and where?
- The storm is forecast to bring heavy rain to the western Caribbean, with 3 to 6 inches expected across western Cuba, and isolated higher totals in Jamaica and Cuba.
- What is the predicted path and intensity of Rafael?
- Rafael is expected to move westward, potentially reaching Category 2 status before making landfall in Cuba, bringing heavy rain and the possibility of flash floods and mudslides.
- What other severe weather conditions are anticipated?
- The southwestern corner of Florida, including the Keys, could experience tornadoes starting Wednesday morning and continuing into the afternoon, according to National Hurricane Center Director Michael Brennan.
- Which areas were under hurricane warnings due to Rafael?
- Hurricane warnings were issued for the Cayman Islands and several Cuban provinces, including Havana, signaling potential hurricane conditions within 36 hours.
- What was the intensity of Tropical Storm Rafael when it was near the Cayman Islands?
- Tropical Storm Rafael intensified into a Category 1 hurricane on Tuesday evening near the Cayman Islands, boasting maximum sustained winds of at least 75 mph.