WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Rafael strengthened to a Category 2 hurricane Wednesday morning with winds of 100 mph as it approaches western Cuba.
The storm, which is moving northwest at 14 mph, is forecast to weaken slightly as it enters the Gulf of Mexico
A tropical storm warning is in effect for the Lower and Middle Florida Keys.
TRACKING THE TROPICS: Hurricane Center | Hurricane Guide
At 7 a.m., hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 15 miles from the center and tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 105 miles.
It should stay hurricane strength while in the southern Gulf of Mexico, but as it moves north it will encounter strong shear, dry air and cooler waters. This will weaken it rapidly as it approaches the northern Gulf Coast.
On its current track, South Florida will not see direct impacts, however, we will see some fringe effects as it will drag a tropical airmass over us which will increase rain chances and humidity over the next few days. It will still stay windy too through at least Thursday.
We are also watching an area with a 30% increasing chance for development behind Rafael, north of the islands.
It is expected to move into the Bahamas Saturday then into south Florida on Sunday. Regardless of development or a named storm, we will see wind and rain chances pick up on Sunday and Monday.
