Hurricane Rafael Gains Strength in Caribbean

Hurricane Rafael, initially a tropical storm, intensified into a hurricane on Tuesday evening. Located 305 miles south-southeast of Havana, Cuba, it boasted maximum sustained winds of 75 mph, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center. The storm's development is being closely monitored.

On Tuesday evening, Tropical Storm Rafael escalated into a hurricane, as confirmed by the U.S. National Hurricane Center.

At its latest position, Hurricane Rafael was situated approximately 305 miles south-southeast of Havana, Cuba. It achieved maximum sustained winds of 75 mph, reported the Miami-based forecaster.

The intensifying storm is drawing attention as meteorologists continue to track its progress and potential impact in the Caribbean region.

(With inputs from agencies.)