Hurricane Rafael strengthens as it approaches Cuba with landfall expected Wednesday
Hurricane Rafael is expected to strengthen into a Category 2 storm as it approaches western Cuba, with landfall anticipated on Wednesday. The storm currently has maximum sustained winds of 90 mph and is moving northwest. Cuba is already facing challenges from recent hurricanes, including blackouts and evacuations in the eastern province of Guantanamo. Authorities have issued warnings for multiple provinces, urging residents to prepare for potential flooding and mudslides. Rafael has caused power outages and flooding in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands. Heavy rainfall is expected to spread into Florida later this week, with storm surge warnings issued for parts of the state.