Hurricane Rafael has strengthened into a major Category 3 storm as it impacts Cuba before moving into the Gulf of Mexico.

The National Hurricane Center said Hurricane Rafael will grow into a major Category 3 storm Wednesday before it strikes Cuba and moves into the Gulf of Mexico, while the Florida Keys remain under a tropical storm warning.

MIAMI - The lower and middle Florida Keys are under a tropical storm warning as Hurricane Rafael is forecast to grow steadily on a path for Cuba, where it's expected to arrive on Wednesday. A tropical storm warning is also issued for portions of Cuba. A hurricane warning is in effect for parts of Cuba.