Rafael was the first major storm to strike Cuba since Ian in 2022, with severe wind damage reported in Artemisa, Mayabeque, and Havana. Thousands were evacuated, and extensive recovery efforts are underway.
Course Update
Initially tracking toward the U.S. Gulf Coast, Rafael is now expected to remain in the southern Gulf, with its path shifting west toward Mexico’s coast.
The storm will gradually weaken over the weekend, though dangerous rip currents and rough seas could still affect the U.S. Gulf Coast.