Hurricane Rafael, an unusual November storm, has formed in the Caribbean, bringing significant challenges for Cuba and the Gulf of Mexico. Rafael intensified into a Category 1 hurricane with winds reaching 75 mph as it approached the Cayman Islands and now heads northwest toward western Cuba and the Gulf.
The storm is expected to unleash heavy rain, hurricane-force winds, and dangerous storm surges across western Cuba. Rainfall totals could reach up to 8 inches, raising concerns about potential mudslides. Adding to Cuba’s woes, Rafael has triggered the country’s second nationwide blackout this month, with severe weather and fragile infrastructure straining the power grid.
Forecasters remain uncertain about Rafael’s exact path, though it’s likely to weaken before making landfall along the Gulf Coast.
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