Tropical Storm Rafael Gaining Strength Near Jamaica
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. – Exciting and a bit tense news from the tropics! Tropical Storm Rafael is on the verge of becoming a hurricane as it moves through the Caribbean, putting areas near Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, and Cuba on high alert. With forecasts calling for Rafael to strengthen later today, many are keeping a close eye on this storm’s path.
What’s Happening Right Now?
As of 10:00 PM, NOAA and Air Force Hurricane Hunter aircraft have recorded that Rafael is situated around latitude 19.3 North and longitude 79.9 West, cruising northwest at about 15 mph. It’s expected to continue this general path over the next few days.
The storm is projected to pass close to or make landfall on the Cayman Islands tonight, and then sweep over western Cuba on Wednesday. By Wednesday night, Rafael will likely head into the southeastern Gulf of Mexico. It’s crucial for residents in these areas to stay vigilant and prepared!
Wind and Rain Alerts
Currently, maximum sustained winds of around 80 mph are being reported, with even stronger gusts rumored to be whipping through the storm. If you’re in the path of Rafael, you’ll want to brace for these powerful winds. For those keeping score, tropical-storm-force winds are extending outwards about 115 miles from the storm’s center.
Once Rafael officially becomes a hurricane, which is expected shortly, it’s likely to pack an even mightier punch, especially as it prepares to hit the Cayman Islands and Cuba. Heavy rainfall is a big concern, as areas could receive between 3 to 6 inches, with some hills and elevated terrains possibly seeing up to 10 inches! This kind of deluge can lead to flash flooding and mudslides, which no one wants to deal with.
Warnings and Precautions
It’s critical to pay attention to the warnings in effect. A Tropical Storm Warning is currently active for the Lower and Middle Florida Keys and for Jamaica, while a Hurricane Warning is in play for the Cayman Islands and most of western Cuba. If you’re anywhere in these regions, now’s the time to ensure you have your emergency plans and supplies ready!
Residents in Jamaica can expect tropical storm conditions today, while those in the Cayman Islands should prepare for hurricane conditions by this evening. Western Cuba, along with the Isle of Youth, should also brace for impact as it seems Rafael is not letting up anytime soon.
Potential Hazards
As if heavy rains and strong winds weren’t enough, there’s also the risk of storm surge along these coastlines. Minor flooding is anticipated in Jamaica tonight, and the Cayman Islands face a surge that could elevate water levels by 1 to 3 feet. In areas of Cuba where onshore winds will prevail, that surge could escalate by an alarming 6 to 9 feet.
Additionally, there’s a small chance that a few tornadoes could touch down over the Florida Keys and southwestern regions of the mainland Florida on Wednesday. So, folks, let’s keep our guard up!
Stay Safe and Informed
The situation is fluid, and weather conditions can change quickly in storms like Rafael. It’s essential to stay informed by following local news and weather updates. Remember that safety comes first, and being prepared can make all the difference during severe weather events.
As Rafael approaches, communities across the Caribbean and Southeastern U.S. should remain alert, safe, and ready to take the necessary precautions. Let’s hope everyone’s preparations keep them safe!
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
