Hurricane Rafael Makes Landfall in Cuba: Power Grid Collapses, Schools Shut

Hurricane Rafael Hits Cuba -  Power Grid Collapses, Schools Shut Down

The storm's impact is being closely monitored, with forecasters predicting heavy rainfall and strong...

10 Million Cubans Left in Dark: Hurricane Rafael Causes Second Power Outage in Month.

Hurricane Rafael, a powerful Category 3 hurricane, devastated Cuba on November 6, causing widespread disruptions, including school closures, transportation shutdowns, and a nationwide power outage. The hurricane's sustained winds of 115 miles per hour (185 kilometers per hour) left a trail of destruction, uprooting trees and toppling electric poles.

Cuba's state-owned grid operator, Electrical Union (UNE), reported that the strong winds led to a complete failure of the country's power grid. The national electric system collapsed due to the intense winds, causing a nationwide blackout. Hundreds of technicians were deployed to restore power connections, with operations at two electrical plants partially restored by Thursday afternoon.

The hurricane's impact was severe, with Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel announcing that Havana, Mayabeque, and Artemisa were greatly affected. Thousands of people in the western Artemisa province were evacuated from coastal zones ahead of landfall. Rafael is the strongest hurricane to hit Cuba since Ian in 2022 and the fifth major hurricane of the year in the Atlantic.

Hurricane Rafael's Impact:

Power Outage: Nationwide blackout affecting the entire country 

Transportation: Disruptions to transportation services 

School Closures: Schools closed due to the hurricane 

Evacuations: Thousands evacuated from coastal zones in western Artemisa province.

The hurricane has moved into the Gulf of Mexico, posing a threat to Mexico's Gulf Coast, with the US Gulf Coast expected to experience rough seas and dangerous rip currents.

Cuba is experiencing a massive power outage, leaving all 10 million residents without electricity for the second time in less than a month. Radio and television stations across the nation confirmed the widespread blackout. This comes as a powerful storm approaches the island.

To ensure public safety, police vehicles equipped with loudspeakers are patrolling central areas, warning residents to stay indoors and seek shelter immediately. The authorities have also taken measures to minimize risks by halting schools and public transportation indefinitely. Additionally, flights at Havana's Jose Marti International Airport and the popular Varadero beach resort have been canceled until further notice.

The storm's impact is being closely monitored, with forecasters predicting heavy rainfall and strong winds. Hurricane Oscar, which formed unexpectedly in the southwestern Atlantic Ocean, is expected to bring significant weather disruptions to the region. The U.S. National Hurricane Center has issued warnings for eastern Cuba, the southeastern Bahamas, and the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Storm Preparations and Cancellations:

Schools and Public Transportation: Halted indefinitely

Flights: Canceled at Havana's Jose Marti International Airport and Varadero beach resort until further notice

Power Outage: Nationwide blackout affecting 10 million residents

Hurricane Rafael has brought devastating winds of 115 miles per hour to Cuba, particularly affecting the farming provinces of Artemisa and Pinar del Río, known for their premium tobacco production. The National Hurricane Center in Miami had issued a warning, urging evacuation of the affected areas to prevent loss of life. Agriculture Minister Ydael Pérez Brito took proactive measures to protect 8,000 metric tons of tobacco, fruits, and vegetables in the region.

The storm's impact on Havana, home to 2 million people, is a major concern due to its outdated housing and infrastructure, making it prone to hurricanes and flooding

. Unfortunately, this hurricane comes on the heels of a nationwide power outage last month, which left Cuba without electricity for several days. The country's fragile grid and infrastructure are facing yet another setback.

Hurricane Rafael's Impact:

Power Outage: The entire country is without electricity as of Wednesday evening 

Agricultural Damage: Significant damage to agricultural lands in Güira de Melena, affecting food supply chain

Flooding and Landslides: Heavy rainfall causing flash floods and landslides in western Cuba 

Storm Surge: Water levels raised by 2.5 to 3.5 meters above normal tide levels along southern coast 

Rafael has weakened to a Category 2 hurricane but continues to bring life-threatening storm surge, damaging winds, and flash flooding to Cuba. The hurricane is expected to move into the southeastern Gulf of Mexico, potentially affecting southern Florida with heavy rain and stormy conditions.

Stay safe, Cuba!