Tropical Storm Rafael continues to strengthen in the Caribbean as it moves northwest, and is expected to become a hurricane before hitting Cuba.
According to the part At 4:00 am from the United States National Hurricane Center, the system was near latitude 17.0 North and longitude 78.0 West, moving at a speed of 20 km/h.
According to the projections of the Institute of Meteorology, Rafael could make landfall in Cuba on Wednesday afternoon, news that generates great concern on the island, hit by an unprecedented crisis.
At 4:00 AM this Tuesday, Rafael had sustained winds of up to 95 km/h, with more intense gusts, and rapid intensification is expected in the next 24 to 36 hours.
Authorities warn that the cyclone will reach hurricane strength when it passes near the Cayman Islands and will strengthen further before reaching Cuba. Hurricane warnings have been issued for several western Cuban provinces, including Pinar del Río, Artemisa, Havana, Mayabeque, Matanzas and Isla de la Juventud.
Potential impacts of Hurricane Rafael on the Caribbean and Cuba
Rafael’s effects will not be limited to hurricane-force winds. Heavy rain is forecast that could leave accumulations of between 76 and 152 mm in areas of the Western Caribbean, with totals of up to 254 mm in the mountainous areas of Jamaica and Cuba. These rains can cause flash floods and landslides.
Residents of Jamaica and the Cayman Islands have already begun to experience tropical storm conditions, and these are expected to intensify throughout the day. In Cuba, the aforementioned provinces are preparing for hurricane-force winds on Wednesday, while in Florida, the Middle and Lower Keys could receive heavy rains with accumulations of 25 to 76 mm towards the end of the week.
Additionally, the storm surge associated with Rafael could raise sea levels by 1 to 3 feet (30 cm to 90 cm) in the Cayman Islands, and up to 6 to 9 feet (1.8 to 2.7 meters) on the southern coast of Cuba, increasing the danger of severe coastal flooding.
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**Interview with Dr. Emily Carter, Meteorologist at the National Weather Service**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Dr. Carter. Tropical Storm Rafael seems to be gaining strength as it moves through the Caribbean. Can you tell us how significant the developments are for Cuba?
**Dr. Carter:** Absolutely, it’s a concerning situation for Cuba. Tropical Storm Rafael has indeed intensified, with sustained winds reaching 95 km/h, and it’s expected to strengthen into a hurricane soon. This poses a serious threat, especially as it approaches the island amidst its current crisis.
**Interviewer:** What are the expected impacts on Cuba as Rafael approaches?
**Dr. Carter:** The main dangers include potentially destructive winds, heavy rainfall, and coastal flooding. Given Cuba’s current circumstances, which include economic challenges and strain on emergency services, any hurricane could exacerbate these issues significantly.
**Interviewer:** When are we expecting the storm to make landfall, and what should residents do to prepare?
**Dr. Carter:** Projections indicate that Rafael could make landfall by Wednesday afternoon. Residents should closely monitor updates from local authorities and should be prepared to evacuate if necessary. Stockpiling essential supplies like food, water, and medications should be a priority.
**Interviewer:** What is the National Hurricane Center saying about the storm’s path?
**Dr. Carter:** The National Hurricane Center has reported that Rafael is moving northwest at about 20 km/h. It’s crucial that we stay vigilant, as these storms can quickly change direction and intensity. Regular updates will be key for everyone in the affected areas.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, Dr. Carter. We hope for the safety of everyone in Rafael’s path.
**Dr. Carter:** Thank you for having me. Stay safe, everyone.
