Caribbean to Face a New Storm: Rafael's Journey

Hey there! By Monday, forecasters expect a new tropical storm to form in the Caribbean. They're predicting it'll hit Jamaica and the Cayman Islands with heavy rain first. Then, it could strengthen into a hurricane and head towards Cuba. From there, it might bring more rain to the US Gulf coast, especially to areas along the Gulf of Mexico. Experts at the National Hurricane Center in Miami are keeping a close eye on this potential storm, which they're calling "Potential Tropical Cyclone 18. " It's currently around 220 miles south of Kingston, Jamaica, with winds up to 35 mph and moving north at 7 mph. If it follows the current predictions, it could pass near Jamaica by late Monday, the Cayman Islands by Tuesday or Wednesday, and then over western Cuba on Wednesday.

Weather experts advise those in Cuba and the Florida Keys to keep an eye on its development. The storm might weaken fast as it heads north due to dry air and not-so-warm water temperatures. Be ready for heavy rain, with totals up to 9 inches in Jamaica and parts of Cuba. This could lead to flooding or mudslides. Remember, hurricane seasons usually last until late November, and we're seeing more late-season storms due to the ongoing climate crisis caused by fossil fuel burning. In other news, Tropical Storm Patty is expected to change into a post-tropical cyclone on Monday, located about 490 miles east of the Azores with winds up to 40 mph. No coastal warnings are in effect for Patty.

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