Tropical Storm Rafael forms in the Caribbean with uncertain path toward U.S. Gulf Coast
Tropical Depression Eighteen formed in the Caribbean and is expected to strengthen into Tropical Storm Rafael. It may become a hurricane by midweek, impacting Cuba before moving into the Gulf of Mexico. Its path and intensity remain uncertain.
Forecasts show Rafael could reach the U.S. Gulf Coast this weekend, with potential landfall between the Florida-Alabama border and Louisiana. However, two major models suggest different tracks, leading to uncertainty about the storm's impact on flooding and rainfall.
Hurricane and tropical storm alerts are already in effect for Cuba, Jamaica, and the Cayman Islands. Heavy rainfall and flash flooding are expected in these areas, with Cuba and Jamaica facing significant rainfall totals.