Hurricane Rafael Weakens as It Moves Across Gulf of Mexico

Hurricane Rafael, currently a Category 2 storm, is expected to move west across the Gulf of Mexico, potentially weakening to a tropical storm by Sunday. After impacting Cuba as a Category 3 hurricane and disrupting its electrical grid, storm warnings have eased for some areas, although hazardous surf conditions may persist in the Gulf.

Hurricane Rafael, now classified as a Category 2 storm, is forecasted to make a gradual westward journey across the Gulf of Mexico in the coming days. This region presents more adverse conditions compared to the Caribbean, including increased wind shear, drier air, and cooler ocean temperatures, all of which could contribute to the weakening of the storm. The National Hurricane Center predicts that by the time Rafael nears the coast of Mexico on Sunday, it may downgrade to a tropical storm. Following its landfall in western Cuba as a Category 3 hurricane, which disrupted the country’s already struggling electrical grid, the storm was reported to have caused significant devastation. While a tropical storm warning for the Dry Tortugas has been lifted as of Thursday morning, forecasters caution that Rafael may still generate “life-threatening” surf and rip current conditions throughout the Gulf region. Furthermore, as of Thursday at 7 a.m., the chances of a new tropical disturbance forming north of Puerto Rico and Haiti have been decreased by the hurricane center, currently at a 20% probability of evolving into a tropical depression within the next several days. The next name on the hurricane list is Sara.

Hurricane Rafael represents a significant meteorological event, impacting regions with heightened vulnerability. Following the substantial damage inflicted by October’s Hurricane Oscar, which resulted in fatalities and destruction of thousands of homes, the effects of another storm pose additional challenges. This situation is compounded by Rafael’s unfortunate timing as Cuba grapples with recovery efforts. The National Hurricane Center plays a crucial role in monitoring such storms, providing forecasts that help mitigate risk to life and property.

In summary, Hurricane Rafael is anticipated to weaken as it traverses the Gulf of Mexico, facing adverse conditions that may reduce its intensity. Although the immediate threat to the Dry Tortugas has passed, forecasters remain vigilant concerning potential rip currents and surf hazards in the Gulf. With a new tropical disturbance unlikely to develop imminently, attention will shift toward Rafael’s trajectory as it approaches Mexico, and the implications thereof.

Original Source: www.miamiherald.com