Hurricane Rafael is turning to the west over the southern Gulf of Mexico as the storm continues to impact Cuba on Thursday, according to the National Hurricane Center.

Florida residents along the Gulf Coast are being urged to monitor Tropical Storm Rafael as it strengthens in the Caribbean and heads towards the U.S. The Florida Division of Emergency Management is advising residents to stay informed and be prepared for potential impacts from the storm.

Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Tropical Storm Rafael gaining strength Tuesday morning after forming in the Caribbean Sea, with forecasters saying it will strengthen into a hurricane with predictions the storm is headed for the U.