Rafael is forecast to strengthen Tuesday and will likely become a hurricane over the next 24 hours as it batters the western Caribbean on the first leg of an uncertain journey toward the US Gulf Coast.

Rain, tropical-storm-force winds and even the potential for some tornadoes are possible for some portions of Florida with Tropical Storm Rafael.

A tropical storm watch was in effect for the Cuban provinces ... with a large-scale blackout on the island. Forecasters warned Rafael would unleash heavy rains across the western Caribbean that could lead to flooding and mudslides, with totals of 3 to ...