Tropical Depression 18 is expected to strengthen into Hurricane Rafael

MIAMI – Millions of people from the Caribbean to the U.S. Gulf Coast are keeping an eye on Tropical Depression 18 as the system becomes more organized and is expected to strengthen into Hurricane Rafael in the coming days.

According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), Tropical Depression Eighteen is likely to strengthen into Tropical Storm Rafael as it approaches Jamaica and will continue to gain strength as it travels north.

According to the NHC, Rafael is expected to be near or at hurricane strength on its way to the Cayman Islands and Cuba.

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What's new in Tropical Depression 18?

This graphic shows the latest with Tropical Depression Eighteen.
(FOX Weather)

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Tropical Depression Eighteen, previously designated Potential Tropical Cyclone Eighteen, has maximum sustained winds of 35 mph and is located less than 200 miles south of Kingston, Jamaica.

This graphic shows the current watches and warnings due to Tropical Depression 18.
(FOX Weather)

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Due to the potential threat posed by Tropical Depression 18, a tropical storm warning has been issued for Jamaica and a hurricane warning has been issued for the Cayman Islands.

In addition, hurricane and tropical storm watches were issued for parts of Cuba.

What to do if watches or warnings are issued for your city?

What is the forecast for Tropical Depression 18?

The forecast cone for Tropical Depression Eighteen.
(FOX Weather)

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According to the NHC, Tropical Depression 18 will move further north on Monday and turn northwest later in the day. This application is expected in the next few days. Eighteen will be near or over Jamaica on Monday evening and will be near or over the Cayman Islands on Tuesday.

Tropical Depression 18 is expected to approach Cuba on Wednesday.