Hurricane Rafael Is Racing Towards Cuba [LIVE Updates & Satellite Views]

Hurricane Rafael has rapidly strengthened, it is now forecast to become a major (Category 3+) storm as it approaches western Cuba, prompting widespread warnings and evacuations. If it does, it would be 5th major hurricane of the 2024 Atlantic season.

It threatens to bring severe winds, flooding, and storm surges to the region, with potential impacts extending to nearby areas.

Storm Details & Trajectory

Hurricane Rafael is currently located approximately 160 miles south-southeast of Havana, Cuba, with maximum sustained winds of 100 mph. The storm is moving northwest at a speed of 14 mph and is expected to make landfall in western Cuba by Wednesday evening. Meteorologists anticipate Rafael will continue to intensify. This rapid intensification is part of a concerning trend, as Rafael marks the ninth storm in the Atlantic basin this year to undergo such rapid strengthening.

Warnings and Preparations

A hurricane warning is in effect for several Cuban provinces, including Pinar del Rio, Artemisa, Havana, Mayabeque, Matanzas, and the Isle of Youth.The Cayman Islands are also under a hurricane warning, though it has been lifted for Grand Cayman.

Cuban authorities have ordered the evacuation of 37,000 people in the eastern province of Guantanamo. The Cuban Civil Defense has urged residents to make immediate preparations and emphasized the importance of staying in place once the storm arrives.

The U.S. State Department has issued a travel advisory for Cuba, offering evacuation flights to non-essential personnel and American citizens while advising others to reconsider travel plans.

Expected Impacts

Western Cuba is forecast to receive 3 to 6 inches of rain, with isolated areas potentially seeing up to 10 inches. This heavy rainfall poses significant risks of flash flooding and mudslides, particularly in mountainous regions. A dangerous storm surge of 6 to 9 feet is expected along Cuba’s southern coastline.

Regional Effects

Jamaica and Cayman Islands: Rafael has already caused power outages, flooding, and landslides in Jamaica. The Cayman Islands have reported widespread power outages and school closures.

Florida and Southeastern U.S.: Heavy rainfall is expected to spread northward into Florida and nearby southeastern states later in the week. The Florida Keys may experience storm surges of 1 to 3 feet, with a risk of tornadoes in southwestern Florida.

Historical Context

Rafael is the 17th named storm of the 2024 hurricane season, which has been notably active. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicted a well-above-average season, with 17 to 25 named storms expected. Rafael’s intensity makes it the most powerful hurricane to traverse northwestern Caribbean waters in November since records began in 2000.