Hurricane Rafael Makes Landfall in Cuba

Hurricane Rafael intensified to a Category 3 storm as it made landfall in western Cuba, causing widespread power outages and evacuations in affected areas. The hurricane brought maximum sustained winds of 185 km/h, with forecasters warning of life-threatening storm surges and flash floods. In preparation, the Cuban government suspended classes, public transport, and flights, while residents stocked up on supplies. The storm's impact is compounded by ongoing power grid failures in Cuba, which had already left millions without electricity. As Rafael moves northwest, authorities are bracing for further damage, particularly in Pinar del Río and Artemisa provinces. The situation is dire, with reports indicating that power outages could reach 1,400 MW during the storm's peak.