Cuba is facing the aftermath of a fierce Category 3 hurricane that tore through the island, causing widespread damage and power outages. Hurricane Rafael brought life-threatening storm surges, winds, and flash floods to Cuba after impacting the Cayman Islands and Jamaica.
Massive waves and strong winds battered Havana, leaving the cityscape littered with fallen trees and flooded roads. Much of the city was plunged into darkness as the power grid was knocked out.
As the storm moved across Cuba, it weakened to a Category 2 hurricane before heading towards the Gulf of Mexico near northern Mexico and southern Texas. The National Hurricane Center in Miami issued warnings about the potential dangers posed by Rafael.
This latest natural disaster comes on the heels of a challenging period for Cuba, which recently experienced island-wide blackouts and another powerful hurricane that claimed lives in the eastern part of the country. The ongoing economic crisis has further exacerbated the situation, leading to discontent among the population.
In response to the approaching storm, the Cuban government issued alerts and implemented safety measures, including evacuations in some areas, suspension of classes and public transport, and cancellation of flights. Thousands of residents were urged to prepare for the impact of the hurricane.
The concern over Rafael's impact was heightened by the devastation it caused in the Cayman Islands and Jamaica, where power outages, flooding, and landslides were reported. Rafael marks the 17th named storm of the season, with forecasts predicting an above-average hurricane season with potentially 17 to 25 named storms, including up to 13 hurricanes and four major hurricanes.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's projections for the 2024 hurricane season indicate a heightened risk of severe weather events in the Atlantic region. As Cuba grapples with the aftermath of Hurricane Rafael, the focus remains on recovery efforts and ensuring the safety of residents in the affected areas.
