Hurricane Rafael, currently a Category 2 storm, is expected to move west across the Gulf of Mexico, where unfavorable conditions could weaken it into a tropical storm by Sunday. It recently impacted Cuba, damaging the electrical grid. Meanwhile, potential new disturbances have low development chances, with the next storm named Sara.
Hurricane Rafael, currently classified as a Category 2 storm, is projected to move westward across the Gulf of Mexico over the coming days. The storm is expected to encounter less favorable conditions relative to those experienced in the Caribbean, including increased wind shear, drier air, and cooler water temperatures, all of which may contribute to a reduction in its intensity. According to the National Hurricane Center, Rafael could revert to a tropical storm by Sunday as it approaches the Mexican coastline. As of the latest update at 7 a.m. on Thursday, tropical storm warnings for the Dry Tortugas have been lifted, leaving no active watches or warnings in effect. However, forecasters have cautioned that certain areas within the Gulf may experience hazardous surf conditions and life-threatening rip currents. On Wednesday, Hurricane Rafael made landfall in western Cuba as a Category 3 hurricane, resulting in significant damage to the island’s already fragile electrical infrastructure. This incident follows another recent disaster in October when Hurricane Oscar struck eastern Cuba, causing widespread destruction and fatalities. Additionally, the hurricane center has reduced the likelihood of a new tropical disturbance forming northward of Puerto Rico and Haiti, estimating only a 20% chance of it developing into a tropical depression within the next week. The next name in the hurricane naming convention is Sara.
Hurricanes are tropical storms characterized by strong winds and heavy rainfall, originating over warm ocean waters. They can dramatically impact coastal regions through flooding, erosion, and damage to infrastructure. The classification of hurricanes typically ranges from Category 1 to Category 5, with escalating wind speeds and potential for destruction. The National Hurricane Center plays a pivotal role in tracking these storms, providing updates and forecasts crucial for public safety and preparedness. In recent years, storms have increasingly affected island nations, highlighting the need for robust emergency management systems.
In summary, Hurricane Rafael has transitioned to a Category 2 storm and is expected to weaken as it moves across the Gulf of Mexico, potentially downgrading to a tropical storm by the time it reaches Mexico. Meanwhile, Cuba is dealing with the aftermath of the hurricane’s impact, having suffered significant damage to its electrical grid. As the forecasting of future tropical disturbances continues, vigilance remains crucial for coastal communities.
Original Source: www.miamiherald.com
