Tropical Storm Rafael weakens over Gulf of Mexico after hitting Cuba as hurricane
Tropical Storm Rafael weakened over the Gulf of Mexico after hitting Cuba as a Category 3 hurricane. It is currently 290 miles north-northwest of Progreso, Mexico, with winds of 50 mph and moving west-northwest. Rafael caused significant damage in Cuba, knocking out power, forcing 283,000 evacuations, and collapsing 461 homes. Many residents remain without electricity as recovery efforts continue. Cuba's government is working to restore power, and Russia has pledged to send 80,000 tons of diesel and equipment worth $62 million to assist in recovery efforts.