Rafael Strengthens Near Jamaica, Churns Towards Cuba

CARIBBEAN – The 18th named storm of the Atlantic Hurricane Season gained strength this morning after forming in the Caribbean on Monday.

Tropical Storm Rafael was forecast to grow steadily as it churned past Jamaica’s west coast on a path for Cuba.

A hurricane warning was in effect for the Cayman Islands and a hurricane watch was issued for parts of Cuba as Rafael continued moving northwest.

Western Cuba is expected to be in the bullseye on Wednesday.