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Cuba Plunged into Darkness by Hurricane Rafael
Hurricane Rafael slams into Cuba, causing a complete blackout and widespread damage.
English
United Kingdom
Climate ChangeNatural DisasterWeatherCubaHurricanePower Outage
UneNational Hurricane Center (Nhc)ReutersApNoaa
- What caused the complete power outage in Cuba?
- Hurricane Rafael, a Category 3 storm, caused a complete blackout in Cuba after making landfall. High winds overwhelmed the electricity grid, leaving the entire population of 10 million without power.
- What is the current forecast for Hurricane Rafael?
- Hurricane Rafael weakened to a Category 2 storm after passing over Cuba's northwestern coast, heading towards the Gulf of Mexico. The storm's path remains uncertain, but further impacts are possible in the region.
- What were the immediate impacts of Hurricane Rafael on Cuba?
- The storm brought damaging winds, heavy rain, and a life-threatening storm surge to western Cuba. Schools and public transportation were suspended, flights were grounded, and residents were urged to take shelter.
- What other recent challenges has Cuba faced with its electricity grid?
- Cuba's national electric grid has experienced significant challenges in recent weeks, including a total collapse last month coinciding with Hurricane Oscar. These issues are partly due to the country's struggles securing vital oil imports for its power plants.
- What warnings did the National Hurricane Center issue about Hurricane Rafael?
- The National Hurricane Center (NHC) warned of life-threatening conditions in western Cuba due to Hurricane Rafael. They predicted significant rainfall, leading to risks of flash flooding and mudslides.