Hurricane Rafael strikes Cuba, disrupts power and infrastructure

Cuba faced significant damage from Hurricane Rafael, a Category 3 storm that struck the island on Wednesday. The hurricane knocked out the national power grid, downed trees, and damaged infrastructure, leaving many residents in need of shelter. Power restoration efforts are underway, but officials warn that the process will be slow. Approximately 50,000 people sought refuge in Havana, while classes and public transport were suspended across parts of the island. Rafael has since weakened to a Category 2 hurricane as it moves toward Mexico. This storm follows a series of recent disasters in Cuba, exacerbating existing economic challenges and prompting increased migration from the island.