Tropical Storm Rafael Forms, Heads Toward Cuba and Gulf of Mexico

The storm is expected to strengthen into a hurricane, posing potential threats to Cuba and the southeastern U.S. by the weekend.

Tropical Depression 18 has developed into Tropical Storm Rafael and is expected to become a hurricane as it moves toward western Cuba.
Hurricane and tropical storm warnings have been issued for Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, and parts of Cuba, with significant rainfall and potential flooding predicted.
Forecast models show uncertainty in Rafael's path post-Cuba, with possible landfall anywhere from the U.S. Gulf Coast to northeastern Mexico.
The storm may bring heavy rain to Florida and the southeastern U.S. later in the week, with enhanced flood risks in these areas.
Rafael is the 11th named storm of the unusually active 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, which has already seen significant impacts across the region.