Tropical Storm Rafael forms in Caribbean, threatens Cuba as hurricane
Tropical Storm Rafael formed in the Caribbean on Monday and is expected to strengthen into a hurricane. It will bring heavy rain to Jamaica and the Cayman Islands before approaching Cuba later this week.
A tropical storm warning is in effect for Jamaica, while a hurricane watch is active for the Cayman Islands and parts of Cuba. The storm is currently about 150 miles south of Kingston, Jamaica, with maximum sustained winds of 45 mph.
The Cayman Islands government has closed schools and offered sandbags to residents. Heavy rainfall is expected, with totals of 3 to 9 inches possible in affected areas, raising concerns for flooding and mudslides.