Hurricane Rafael intensifies as it approaches Cuba with 100 mph winds
Hurricane Rafael is intensifying as it approaches Cuba, with sustained winds of 100 mph. It is expected to make landfall in western Cuba Wednesday afternoon as a strong Category 2 hurricane, potentially reaching Category 3 strength. After passing Cuba, Rafael may weaken in the Gulf of Mexico. Forecasts now suggest it could make landfall anywhere from Louisiana to northeastern Mexico, shifting west from earlier predictions that included Alabama and the Florida Panhandle. Heavy rain and strong winds are already affecting Cuba, with potential storm surge of up to 13 feet. The storm could bring significant rainfall to the Southeast U.S., with some areas at risk of flooding.