A new tropical storm is brewing in the Gulf of Mexico, and while its impact on Georgia is unclear, the National Weather Service is actively watching Potential Tropical Cyclone Eighteen, which could soon strengthen into Tropical Storm Rafael.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The system, now under a Tropical Storm Warning near Jamaica, is expected to bring dangerous conditions by midweek.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Just The Facts:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2022 Potential Tropical Cyclone Eighteen is expected to become a tropical storm by Monday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2022 The system is forecast to pass near Jamaica Monday night and Tuesday, with hurricane-force winds possible by Tuesday night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2022 Tropical storm watches may be issued for the Florida Keys as early as tonight or Monday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2022 The northern Gulf Coast could see impacts later this week, but the forecast remains uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Details:<\/strong> The National Hurricane Center issued its first advisory for Potential Tropical Cyclone Eighteen at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday. Forecasters predict that the disturbance will develop into a tropical storm by Monday and possibly strengthen into a hurricane by Tuesday night. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The storm is set to bring heavy rain, flooding, and potentially dangerous winds to the Caribbean.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In Context:<\/strong> The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season has already seen significant activity, and the possible formation of Tropical Storm Rafael would add to the challenges faced by communities in the region. Historically, late-season storms can still cause severe disruptions, and this system\u2019s path could bring widespread impacts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What\u2019s Next?:<\/strong> The National Hurricane Center will continue to monitor the system closely, with updates expected as the storm approaches Jamaica and potentially strengthens. The next advisory will likely provide more clarity on the storm\u2019s path and intensity, particularly regarding its potential impact on the U.S. Gulf Coast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n