Hurricane Rafael Intensifies as It Nears Cuba and the Gulf

Rafael is expected to reach near major hurricane strength before impacting Cuba with heavy rain and storm surges.

Hurricane Rafael has strengthened into a Category 2 storm with sustained winds of 100 mph as it approaches western Cuba.
The storm is forecast to cause life-threatening storm surges along Cuba's southern coast, with water levels reaching up to 13 feet.
Heavy rainfall is expected across the Western Caribbean, with Cuba facing potential flash flooding and mudslides due to up to 10 inches of rain.
The Florida Keys are under a tropical storm warning, with possible impacts including rain, tornadoes, and minor storm surges.
Rafael is projected to weaken as it moves into the Gulf of Mexico, with its future path uncertain but potential U.S. impacts being monitored.