Hurricane Rafael, an unusual and powerful November storm, has intensified to a Category 2 hurricane with sustained winds of 110 mph. Its strength and timing make it a rare late-season threat, especially for regions stretching from Texas to the Florida Panhandle. The storm is expected to make landfall in western Cuba within hours, prompting widespread alerts across the southeastern United States.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued hurricane and tropical storm warnings along Rafael’s projected path, including the Florida Keys and parts of the Gulf Coast. Forecasters warn of dangerous conditions such as heavy rainfall, flash flooding, coastal storm surge, and an increased risk of tornadoes as the storm moves northward.
Rafael may strengthen further once it enters the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, potentially increasing the threat to U.S. coastal areas. Emergency management officials are urging residents to take preparedness steps immediately, stay informed through official weather updates, and heed evacuation orders if issued. As Rafael approaches, the next 48 hours will be critical for millions in its path.
