Cuba assesses damage as Hurricane Rafael knocks out power and disrupts life

Cuba is recovering from Hurricane Rafael, a Category 3 storm that knocked out the power grid and caused significant damage. The full extent of the impact is still being assessed, with reports of flooding and downed trees in Havana. The hurricane weakened to Category 2 as it moved into the Gulf of Mexico. Authorities suspended classes and public transport, canceled flights, and evacuated thousands in western Cuba as a precaution. This storm follows a difficult period for Cuba, which recently faced widespread blackouts and another hurricane that resulted in fatalities. The ongoing economic crisis has led to increased migration from the island.