Cuba is already bracing for widespread flooding and possible evacuations, as local authorities urge residents to secure their homes and prepare for the worst.

Meanwhile, officials along the Gulf Coast in the United States are monitoring the storm closely.

Emergency services in Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida are on high alert, preparing sandbags, boarding up windows, and preparing evacuation plans for coastal communities.

While it’s still unclear exactly where Rafael will make landfall, residents are being advised to stock up on supplies and remain vigilant as the weekend approaches.

As of today, Hurricane Rafael has rapidly intensified in the Atlantic Ocean, and meteorologists are closely monitoring its progress as it heads toward the United States.

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued urgent warnings and advisories for coastal regions in the Southeastern U.S. and the East Coast.

Current Status: Hurricane Rafael is currently a Category 2 storm, with maximum sustained winds of 100 mph (160 km/h).

The storm is moving at a steady pace, with a projected path that may bring it ashore within the next 72 hours.

The NHC has warned that it could intensify further as it approaches land.