Tropical Storm Rafael weakens over Gulf of Mexico after hitting Cuba as hurricane
Tropical Storm Rafael has weakened after hitting Cuba as a Category 3 hurricane. It is now expected to dissipate over the Gulf of Mexico. Rafael had maximum sustained winds of 50 mph and was moving west-northwest. The storm caused significant damage in Cuba, knocking out power and forcing the evacuation of 283,000 people. It also destroyed homes and left many without electricity. Cuba's government is working to restore power. In response to the disaster, Russia has pledged to send 80,000 tons of diesel and equipment worth $62 million to assist Cuba's recovery efforts.