Forecasters struggle to predict Hurricane Rafael's future path as storm weakens

Hurricane Rafael made landfall in Cuba as a Category 3 storm, causing widespread power outages for ten million people. The storm brought winds of 105 mph and heavy rain, damaging homes and infrastructure. Forecasters are uncertain about Rafael's future path. While it is expected to remain in the Gulf of Mexico and track westward, predictions vary on whether it will turn northward or southwestward. This uncertainty reduces the threat to the U.S. Gulf Coast. As of Thursday, Rafael weakened to a Category 2 hurricane. The National Hurricane Center warns of dangerous surf and rip currents in the Gulf, but there are currently no coastal watches or warnings in effect.