Hurricane Rafael causes power outage in Cuba and shifts path toward Mexico's Gulf Coast

Hurricane Rafael struck Cuba as a Category 3 storm, causing a nationwide power outage for about 24 hours. The storm has now moved into the Gulf of Mexico, with its path shifting away from the U.S. and toward Mexico's Gulf Coast. Cleanup efforts are underway in Cuba, where heavy rains continue. The power grid is being restored, with some areas regaining electricity by Thursday afternoon. The hurricane is the strongest to hit the northwestern Caribbean in November since 2009. Forecasts now indicate that Rafael will remain in the southern Gulf, reducing the threat to the U.S. Gulf Coast. While the storm is expected to weaken, it may still create rough seas and dangerous rip currents along the coast.