Hurricane Rafael Poised to Enter Gulf of Mexico, Threatens U.S. Coastline
Hurricane Rafael, now a powerful Category 2 storm, is expected to push into the southeastern Gulf of Mexico tonight after battering western Cuba with fierce winds and heavy rain.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued a warning for the Florida Keys, where tropical storm conditions may begin impacting the area as early as tonight.
AccuWeather meteorologist Bill Deger cautioned that even minor shifts in Rafael’s strength or wind direction could dramatically change its path. As of now, the storm could make landfall anywhere from the Texas coastline to the Florida Panhandle.
With strong winds and potential flooding on the horizon, residents along the Gulf Coast are urged to take immediate precautions—secure outdoor items, review emergency plans, and stay closely tuned to local updates as the situation evolves.
