Tropical Storm Rafael Strengthens; Hurricane Warnings Issued for Caribbean Region

Tropical Storm Rafael is projected to strengthen into a hurricane as it moves toward the Cayman Islands and Cuba, prompting warnings across the Caribbean. The storm, 80 miles south-southwest of Jamaica, has max sustained winds of 60 mph. Hurricane warnings are in effect for the Cayman Islands and several Cuban provinces. Heavy rains, winds, and potential flooding are expected in affected regions. Rafael's impacts could extend to Florida and Louisiana by the weekend, but forecasts show uncertain landfall possibilities in the U.S. Gulf Coast.