Tropical Storm Rafael approaches Cayman Islands as Cuba braces for hurricane impact
Tropical Storm Rafael is moving toward the Cayman Islands and is expected to strengthen into a hurricane before reaching Cuba. It was located 105 miles southwest of Kingston, Jamaica, with maximum sustained winds of 60 mph.
A hurricane warning is in effect for the Cayman Islands and several provinces in Cuba. Schools and government offices in the Cayman Islands have closed, and Jamaica is also taking precautions as the storm's outer winds impact the island.
Cuban authorities have issued evacuation orders for about 37,000 people in Guantanamo due to severe weather. Heavy rainfall is expected across the western Caribbean, with potential flooding and mudslides in Jamaica and Cuba, and rain may spread to Florida later in the week.