Hurricane Rafael has strengthened in the Gulf of Mexico after impacting Cuba. Currently a Category 3 hurricane with sustained winds of 120 mph, it is expected to weaken as it encounters drier air and strong wind shear. The storm caused power outages for millions in Cuba and poses a potential threat to coastal areas in the U.S. and Mexico.
Hurricane Rafael has gained strength as it moves through the Gulf of Mexico after initially impacting Cuba with its severe winds and rainfall. Classified as a Category 3 hurricane, Rafael has max sustained winds of 120 mph and has been recording notable wind gusts, including one of 93 mph in Havana at landfall. As it navigates westward at 9 mph, forecasters predict a gradual weakening trend beginning Friday, anticipated to continue over the weekend as it encounters drier air and stronger wind shear. The storm caused extensive damage in Cuba, rendering millions without power and creating hazardous storm surges and flooding. However, tropical alerts have been lifted, indicating an improvement in conditions across the region. Despite this, residents along the U.S. Gulf Coast remain vigilant as they monitor Rafael’s progress, particularly as forecast models suggest potential threats to the Mexican coastline if the hurricane survives the unfavorable conditions expected next week.
Hurricane Rafael has emerged as a significant meteorological event, following the patterns observed in past hurricanes that formed and intensified in the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico. Such hurricanes pose a real risk to coastal areas due to the combination of strong winds, heavy rainfall, and the potential for storm surges. Historically, storms like Rafael cause widespread disruption in affected regions, underscoring the importance of tracking and forecasting their paths to minimize damage and enhance public safety.
In summary, Hurricane Rafael has intensified while traversing the Gulf of Mexico after causing severe disruptions in Cuba. The hurricane’s sustained winds and historical data highlight the threats posed by storms of this magnitude. Moving forward, monitoring and preparedness remain essential for those living along the Gulf Coast, particularly as weather conditions evolve and potential hazards emerge over the coming days.
Original Source: www.fox13news.com
