Tropical System Threatens Gulf Coast, Jamaica

The National Hurricane Center has designated a disturbance in the western Caribbean as Potential Tropical Cyclone 18, expected to develop into Tropical Storm Rafael by Monday. The system is currently moving toward Jamaica and the Cayman Islands, with a Hurricane Watch issued for the Cayman Islands and a Tropical Storm Warning for Jamaica. Maximum sustained winds are near 35 mph, and heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential coastal flooding are anticipated in affected regions. Forecast models suggest that the system could reach the Gulf of Mexico as a Category 1 hurricane, potentially impacting the U.S. Gulf Coast. Interests in Cuba and along the Gulf Coast should closely monitor this developing situation due to the high uncertainties in the storm's track and intensity. The disturbance is expected to bring significant tropical moisture, increasing the risk of flooding in the western Caribbean and possibly South Florida by midweek.