Tropical Storm Rafael forms in the Caribbean and threatens Cuba as a hurricane
Tropical Storm Rafael has formed in the Caribbean and is expected to strengthen into a hurricane. It will bring heavy rain to Jamaica and the Cayman Islands before likely hitting 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. Evacuations are ongoing in eastern Cuba due to bad weather, affecting about 37,000 people.
Rafael is projected to bring 3 to 6 inches of rain, with localized areas receiving up to 9 inches. Flooding and mudslides are possible in affected regions. This storm follows Tropical Storm Oscar, which caused significant damage in October.