Hurricane Rafael Weakens as It Progresses Across the Gulf of Mexico

Hurricane Rafael has downgraded to a Category 2 storm and is forecasted to move slowly westward across the Gulf of Mexico. It may weaken further, potentially becoming a tropical storm by Sunday as it approaches Mexico. Post-landfall in Cuba, the storm disrupted power once more, and there are warnings of hazardous surf and rip currents throughout the Gulf.

Hurricane Rafael has advanced to a Category 2 storm and is forecasted to progress slowly westward across the Gulf of Mexico in the forthcoming days. The meteorological conditions in this region—characterized by significant wind shear, arid air, and cooler ocean temperatures—are anticipated to contribute to the storm’s weakening. According to the National Hurricane Center, Rafael may revert to a tropical storm by the time it approaches the Mexican coast on Sunday. As of the latest update on Thursday at 7 a.m., the tropical storm warning for the Dry Tortugas has been lifted, and no additional watches or warnings are currently in effect. However, forecasters have cautioned that the storm may result in perilous surf and the risk of rip currents throughout the Gulf region. On Wednesday, Hurricane Rafael made landfall in western Cuba as a Category 3 storm, once again incapacitating the island’s fragile electrical grid. This incident follows the unexpected impact of Hurricane Oscar in October, which resulted in the loss of eight lives and damage to approximately 20,000 homes across the eastern part of the nation. In addition, the hurricane center has diminished the probabilities of a new tropical disturbance forming north of Puerto Rico and Haiti, reporting only a 20% chance for it to develop into a tropical depression in the next few days. The next named storm on the list is Sara.

This article discusses the current status and forecast of Hurricane Rafael, which has recently impacted Cuba significantly. The storm is expected to navigate westward through the Gulf of Mexico, where it will encounter less favorable conditions that may lead to its weakening. The article also highlights the prior impact of another hurricane on Cuba’s electrical infrastructure and the likelihood of future disturbances in the region. Such storms pose serious threats, particularly in terms of safety and infrastructure stability.

In summary, Hurricane Rafael has transitioned to a Category 2 storm and is expected to weaken as it travels west across the Gulf of Mexico. With the storm having caused substantial damage in Cuba, attention turns to the potential risks it may pose as it approaches the Mexican coastline. Individuals in the affected areas are advised to remain vigilant due to the hazardous surf and rip current conditions, while forecasters continue to monitor the development of other potential disturbances.

Original Source: www.miamiherald.com