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Cuba's Power Grid Down After Hurricane Rafael
Hurricane Rafael hits Cuba, causing widespread power outages and significant damage.
English
United States
Climate ChangeEnergy SecurityLatin AmericaNatural DisasterCubaHurricaneDamagePower Outage
National Hurricane CenterU.s. State DepartmentJamaica Public ServiceCuban GovernmentCuban Civil Defense
Silvia Pérez
- What was the impact of Hurricane Rafael on Cuba's power grid?
- Hurricane Rafael, a Category 3 hurricane, caused a complete blackout across Cuba after making landfall. The storm brought strong winds, heavy rain, and massive waves, causing significant damage and flooding.
- What was the impact of the hurricane on other nearby islands?
- The storm also impacted Jamaica and the Cayman Islands, causing power outages, flooding, and landslides before moving towards the Gulf of Mexico. The U.S. State Department issued an advisory for American citizens in Cuba, urging them to reconsider travel.
- What actions did Cuban authorities take in response to Hurricane Rafael?
- Thousands of people in western Cuba were evacuated before the hurricane hit as a precaution. Classes and public transport were also suspended in affected areas, and international flights to Havana and Varadero were cancelled.
- What was the intensity and path of Hurricane Rafael after crossing Cuba?
- Rafael weakened to a Category 2 hurricane after crossing Cuba and entered the Gulf of Mexico. The storm's path was projected to continue northwestward, prompting warnings for life-threatening conditions in various regions.
- How does Hurricane Rafael affect Cuba's ongoing recovery from a previous hurricane?
- Cuba is still recovering from another hurricane two weeks prior that caused at least six deaths in the eastern part of the country. This new storm further strains the already struggling island, especially its power grid.