A powerful hurricane is approaching the US and is expected to hit this weekend, causing concern and preparations.
The US braces for Category 2 Hurricane Rafael that could hit as early as this weekend
A powerful hurricane named Rafael is moving toward the United States and is expected to make landfall this weekend.
This storm has been upgraded to a Category 2 hurricane, and its path could affect areas from Texas to Florida.
As of the latest reports, Hurricane Rafael is located about 130 miles south-southeast of Havana, Cuba.
It is moving northwest at a speed of 14 miles per hour.
The hurricane has maximum sustained winds of 110 miles per hour.
Experts predict that it will hit western Cuba and the Isle of Youth soon, likely within the next 12 hours.
Once it passes Cuba, Rafael is expected to enter the southeastern Gulf of Mexico.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued warnings for the Florida Keys.
Residents are advised to prepare for strong winds and possible flooding.
People in the area should secure any loose outdoor items to prevent damage from high winds.
Meteorologists are closely monitoring the situation.
They note that small changes in the storm’s strength or direction can significantly alter its path.
A modeling technique, often called a “spaghetti model” because of the way the lines look, shows four possible paths for Rafael.
The highest chance indicates it may make landfall in Louisiana.
The NHC has also warned that tropical storm conditions could reach the Florida Keys.
Rainfall amounts of up to three inches are possible, and there is an increased risk of tornadoes as the storm moves through the area.
Weather experts remind residents that bands of rain and gusty winds could affect the Keys and parts of southwestern Florida.
‘Bands of rain containing gusty winds will impact this area through Wednesday night.
A few tornadoes cannot be ruled out in the Keys and far southwestern Florida as well,’ The Weather Channel reported.
While Rafael is not expected to directly hit Florida, the state is still reeling from recent hurricanes.
‘It is also possible Rafael is torn apart by strong winds high in the atmosphere and dissipates in the Gulf of Mexico before making landfall,’ Deger said.
Impact of Hurricanes Helene, Milton, and Rafael in November storms
Hurricanes Helene and Milton caused severe damage and were responsible for many casualties.
These storms have claimed around 54 lives, and they have caused insurance claims to exceed $4 billion.
The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season has named Hurricane Rafael as the 17th storm.
It is unusual for hurricanes to occur in November, as this is the final month of the hurricane season.
Historically, only a few hurricanes have made landfall in the US during this month.
The last notable storm in November was Hurricane Nicole, which struck Florida in 2022.
As Rafael approaches, concerns grow about its potential to strengthen.
Some experts suggest it could even become a Category 3 hurricane before reaching land.
This year has seen several storms rapidly intensifying due to unusually warm ocean temperatures, a trend linked to climate change.
Authorities urge residents along the Gulf Coast to stay informed as the situation develops.
It is crucial to follow updates from the NHC and local weather services.
The NHC states it is still too early to predict exactly when and how Rafael will impact the Gulf Coast.
However, they emphasize the importance of preparedness.
In Cuba, a hurricane warning is in effect, and locals are bracing for damaging winds and dangerous storm surges.
The storm will bring heavy rainfall to parts of the Western Caribbean, including western Cuba, Jamaica, and the Cayman Islands.
If Rafael weakens as it moves into the Gulf, its impact on the US may be less severe.
However, if it maintains its strength and shifts towards the northern Gulf Coast, it could enhance rainfall during the weekend into the early part of next week.
Preparing for the storm and staying safe
Meteorologists continue to study the storm’s behavior closely.
Residents in the affected regions should begin making preparations now.
Stocking up on supplies, securing property, and having a plan in place for emergencies can help ensure safety.
It is essential to heed any evacuation orders and stay updated on weather forecasts.