Hurricane Rafael, a Category 3 storm, made ashore in Cuba on Wednesday, causing significant injury and common power outages across the country. The wind had now impacted the Cayman Islands and Jamaica, bringing strong winds, heavy rain, and dangerous storm surges to these island countries.
Before Rafael struck Cuba, the authorities issued instructions and advised people to be wary. Airlines in and out of Havana and Varadero were canceled, and schools and public transport were shut over. According to the Associated Press, thousands of people were evacuated in the eastern region of the island.
Experts warned Rafael may provide “life-threatening” wind surges, winds and flash floods.
Residents are advised to use extreme caution on the highways and close to coastlines because there may still be difficult seas and remaining flooding risks, according to the state in a statement.
” This is a night I do n’t want to sleep through, between the battering air and the trees”, said Silvia Pérez, a 72-year-old resident of Havana preparing for the storm. ” I’m scared for my friends and family”.
Authorities have warned that Rafael may take “life-threatening” storm surges, winds and flash floods.
As Rafael crossed Cuba, it gradually weakened to a Category 2 storms with 105 mph winds. As it moves further southward in the Gulf of Mexico, the storm is anticipated to undermine more. Members of the US state section have been advised to rethink visiting Cuba.
On Tuesday, Rafael caused power interruptions and flood in Jamaica. Additionally, there were school shutdown and power outages in the Cayman Islands. After this year, the wind is forecast to deliver heavy rain to Florida and the southeast of the United States.
Rafael is the 17th named wind of the 2024 hurricane season. Two weeks prior to the hurricane’s entrance, which claimed at least six lives in Cuba’s eastern region, hit its eastern region. The wind caused widespread disruptions, from which the area is still recovering.
