Hurricane Rafael Moves West Across Gulf, Expected Weakening Ahead

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Hurricane Rafael, now a Category 2 storm, is anticipated to move westward across the Gulf of Mexico. The storm may weaken due to unfavorable conditions. As of Thursday, the tropical storm warning for the Dry Tortugas has been lifted. Rafael made landfall in Cuba as a Category 3 hurricane, affecting the electrical grid. There is a low chance of a new disturbance forming in the region.

Hurricane Rafael, classified as a Category 2 storm, is projected to move westward across the Gulf of Mexico over the next few days. The hurricane faces a challenging environment characterized by significant wind shear, arid air, and cooler sea temperatures, which are likely to diminish its intensity. The National Hurricane Center anticipates that by Sunday, Rafael may have downgraded to a tropical storm as it approaches Mexico. On Thursday at 7 a.m., the tropical storm warning for the Dry Tortugas was lifted, and no additional watches or warnings were issued. Meteorologists caution that Rafael may generate hazardous surf and rip current conditions across the Gulf, presenting risks to coastal safety. Previously, Rafael made landfall in western Cuba as a Category 3 hurricane, severely impacting the nation’s already strained electrical infrastructure. In a recent incident earlier this month, Hurricane Oscar inflicted casualties and extensive property damage along Cuba’s eastern coast. Additionally, the National Hurricane Center has downgraded the likelihood of a new tropical disturbance forming north of Puerto Rico and Haiti to 20% over the next week. The next storm on the naming list is Sara, should further developments occur.

The article discusses the trajectory and projected impact of Hurricane Rafael following its landfall in Cuba. As a significant weather event, hurricanes pose substantial risks to affected regions, necessitating close monitoring by meteorologists. This storm’s movement across the Gulf of Mexico and its potential degradation in intensity reveals the dynamic nature of tropical systems, influenced by environmental factors such as wind and sea temperature. Previous hurricanes, including Hurricane Oscar, emphasize the region’s vulnerability to severe weather events.

In summary, Hurricane Rafael’s westward movement across the Gulf of Mexico presents potential hazards due to adverse environmental conditions. While it currently remains a Category 2 storm, forecasts suggest a likelihood of weakening before reaching Mexico. Furthermore, the lifting of warnings highlights the evolving situation as meteorologists actively monitor the storm’s progression and its impact on the Gulf region.

Original Source: www.tampabay.com

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