Hurricane Rafael Becomes Category 3 Storm

Hurricane Rafael has intensified to a Category 3 hurricane over the central Gulf of Mexico, marking a rare occurrence for November and becoming the second major hurricane recorded in the Gulf during this month since 1966. With maximum sustained winds of 120 mph, Rafael is expected to weaken next week as it encounters unfavorable conditions, but it will still generate dangerous surf and rip currents along the Gulf Coast from Texas to Florida. Although the hurricane is not forecasted to make direct landfall, coastal areas should prepare for potential flooding and hazardous beach conditions. In Cuba, Rafael has already caused significant disruptions, leading to evacuations and suspension of classes and public transport in anticipation of life-threatening storm surges and heavy rainfall. The storm is currently moving westward, with fluctuations in intensity expected before it degrades into low-level clouds by mid-next week. Officials continue to monitor Rafael's path and impact closely.