Hurricane Rafael knocks out power grid in Cuba as it makes landfall

Hurricane Rafael, a Category 3 storm, struck western Cuba, knocking out the entire power grid just before landfall. The storm brought heavy winds and rain, causing flooding and damage in Havana, with reports of downed trees and debris on the streets. As Rafael moved northwest, it weakened to a Category 2 hurricane with winds of 105 mph. The Cuban government had already issued alerts, suspended classes, and evacuated thousands in preparation for the storm's impact, which included life-threatening conditions. The storm also affected Jamaica and the Cayman Islands, causing power outages and flooding. Forecasters expect Rafael to weaken further as it moves into the Gulf of Mexico, with potential impacts on Florida later in the week.