Riviera Maya, Q.R. — Cancun to Puerto Morelos, including Isla Mujeres and Cozumel, have been put on a Blue Alert by Civil Protection due to the passing of Hurricane Rafael. Rafael is scheduled to pass over western Cuba Wednesday evening as a major hurricane.
As it does, the northern region of Quintana Roo will likely feel the effects of wind and rain. As much as 25 mms is expected as Rafael passes over Cuba. A major hurricane warning is currently in effect for that region. The NOAA has forecast tropical storm winds, especially gusts, as far down the Quintana Roo coast as Riviera Maya.
During the hours of Wednesday, Rafael quickly developed from a category 1 into a category 3 storm. Due to its rapid intensification and wide band area, State Civil Protection issued the warning due to wind and rain that will likely hit the region.
The warning was issued following a National Meteorological Service (SMN) update. The SMN, an official source of the Government of Mexico, issued the warning Wednesday afternoon prior to the passing of Hurricane Rafael.
“Alerta Azul. Hurricane Rafael has reached Category 3 status and is located 475 km east-northeast of Cancun, Quintana Roo. Maximum winds 185 kms/h with gusts of up to 225 kms/h.
“Displacement: Northwest at 22 km/h. Expected effects: Rain and showers (5 to 25 mms) in Yucatan and Quintana Roo. The Alerta Azul (Blue Alert) has been issued for Puerto Morelos, Cancun, Isla Mujeres, Lazaro Cardenas and Cozumel,” Coordinación Estatal de Protección Civil QRoo reported.
