Some of the models suggest that Rafael may even do a small loop out in the Gulf. Meanwhile, a trough of low pressure near Puerto Rico is bringing heavy rain and thunderstorms to the area but has a low chance of development over the next week.

Rafael is now a tropical storm. Follow along here for updates about the storm on Saturday, Nov. 9. Hurricane Rafael, the storm that pummeled Cuba this week with 115-mph winds and intense rainfall, now isn't forecast to make landfall in the U.

Hurricane Rafael is swirling over the Gulf of Mexico, where it’s expected to break apart after plowing through Cuba, knocking out its power grid and collapsing homes.