Hurricane Rafael strengthens as it approaches Cuba and the Cayman Islands
Tropical Storm Rafael has been upgraded to a Category 1 Hurricane as it moves toward Cuba. The storm is currently located 20 miles southeast of Little Cayman, with maximum sustained winds of 75 mph. Cuba is facing additional challenges as it deals with widespread blackouts and recovery from a recent hurricane that caused six deaths. Rafael is expected to bring heavy rain and potential flooding to parts of Cuba and the Cayman Islands. In response to the storm, MSC Cruises has altered the itinerary of its MSC Seascape ship for passenger safety. The ship will return to Miami on schedule after visiting alternative ports due to Rafael's projected path.