Grand Cayman, 5 November 2024 – As Tropical Storm Rafael moves closer to the Cayman Islands, showers associated with this system have become more visible on the Kearney Gomez Doppler Radar. The Cayman Islands based radar provides vital information to local and international partners, such as the U.S National Hurricane Center.

The doppler radar data offers valuable real-time insights into Tropical Storm Rafael’s intensity, wind patterns, and precipitation, allowing meteorologists to track its structure and evolution closely. In support of the critical information reported by the National Hurricane Center, data reported from the doppler radar in conjunction with findings made by the Hurricane Hunters improve the accuracy of projected storm paths and intensity forecasts. This is especially crucial when forecasting for a developing system such as Tropical Storm Rafael and Hurricane Beryl, the first storm to impact the Cayman Islands this season.  

“This partnership exemplifies our commitment to working together to keep our communities informed and safe,” said Director-General John Tibbetts of the Cayman Islands National Weather Service (CINWS). “Through information-sharing and technological support, we’re helping to enhance resilience to tropical storm events, not just for ourselves, but for our Caribbean neighbours.”

For more updates, please follow CINWS on Facebook, Cayman Islands Government social media channels and Hazard Management Cayman Islands.