Hurricane Rafael Causes Widespread Damage in Cuba

Cuba is reeling after Hurricane Rafael, a fierce Category 3 storm, struck the island, knocking out the power grid and causing widespread infrastructure damage. No fatalities have been reported, but many buildings, particularly in Havana, suffered significant damage, leading around 50,000 people to seek shelter. The hurricane crossed just west of Havana, where residents faced flooding and downed trees, resulting in blocked roads and power outages. Recovery efforts are underway, with officials noting that power has been partially restored in some western areas, yet full restoration will be slow due to safety precautions. The hurricane has since weakened to a Category 2 storm as it moved into the Gulf of Mexico, following its destructive path through Jamaica and the Cayman Islands earlier in the week. The situation is compounded by an ongoing economic crisis and previous blackout issues, raising concerns over the community's resilience amidst these calamities.