A hurricane warning is currently in effect for the Cayman Islands, parts of Cuba—including the provinces of Pinar del Rio, Artemisa, La Habana, Mayabeque, and Matanzas—and the Isle of Youth, as reported by the National Hurricane Center.
Tropical Storm Rafael is projected to move northwest over the coming days, passing near Jamaica before reaching the Cayman Islands tonight and making landfall in western Cuba by Wednesday.
Rafael is expected to strengthen into a hurricane, with maximum sustained winds near 60 miles per hour and gusts potentially reaching 105 miles per hour as it approaches the Cayman Islands.
Heavy rainfall is anticipated across the western Caribbean, with estimates ranging from three to six inches through early Thursday, particularly affecting Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, and parts of Cuba. Areas of higher terrain may receive up to 10 inches of rain, increasing the risk of flash flooding and mudslides.
In the Florida Keys, residents should prepare for possible heavy rainfall of up to three inches this week. Storm surge is expected to elevate water levels by one to three feet above normal tide levels in the Cayman Islands on Tuesday, while parts of Cuba may experience surges of six to nine feet in the hurricane warning zone, including the Isle of Youth. The Florida Keys may see water levels rise by up to two feet, with the Dry Tortugas expecting up to three feet.
Additionally, there is a possibility of tornadoes on Wednesday over the Keys and Florida. Life-threatening swells and rip currents are forecasted to impact much of the western Caribbean in the coming days. Residents in Florida are advised to stay informed through the National Weather Service for updates.