Cuba was left reeling Thursday after a fierce Category-3 hurricane ripped across the island and knocked out the country’s power grid.
The magnitude of the impact remained unclear through the early hours of the day, but forecasters warned that Hurricane Rafael could bring “life-threatening” storm surges, winds, and flash floods to Cuba after ravaging parts of the Cayman Islands and Jamaica.
Residents across the island braced for further disruptions as emergency services worked tirelessly to assess the damage and restore essential services. “We’re facing unprecedented challenges,” a local official stated. “Our priority is to ensure the safety of our people and restore power as quickly as possible.”
The hurricane’s passage through the Caribbean has already caused extensive damage, prompting concerns about potential impacts on global markets and supply chains. International observers are closely monitoring the situation as Cuba is a vital link in maritime routes connecting to Asia.
Neighboring countries and international aid organizations are mobilizing support for the affected regions. Travelers and businesses with interests in the area are advised to stay informed and adhere to local advisories.
The situation remains dynamic, and authorities urge residents and visitors to exercise caution as Hurricane Rafael continues its course.
Reference(s):
Cuba reeling after Category 3 hurricane ravages island and power grid
cgtn.com
