Before making its way into the Gulf of Mexico, Hurricane Rafael barrelled across Cuba on Wednesday night as a catastrophic Category 3 storm. This hurricane has caused alarms throughout the Caribbean and into the south-east United States with gusts strong enough to cause the entire nation to be without electricity. Particularly in Havana’s historic sections, the severe weather event brought strong gusts, towering waves, and torrential rains across western Cuba that flooded streets and caused great damage. Forecasters warn of life-threatening weather, storm surges, and flash floods across the area as Rafael keeps on its path.
What is Hurricane Rafael? Understanding the Latest Threat
The 17th named storm of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season is Hurricane Rafael. Rising as a tropical storm, it rapidly strengthened as it devastated western Cuba. Category 3 strength Rafael’s development has drawn attention to Caribbean extreme weather issues, particularly considering Cuba’s recent challenges with hurricane recovery.
Impact of Hurricane Rafael on Cuba’s Power Gridm
Rafael’s strong winds knocked out Cuba’s whole power system upon arrival. Already taxed by past hurricanes, the island’s electrical system suffered unheard-of damage. Millions without power resulting from widespread outages complicated rescue and recovery efforts.
Massive Waves and Coastal Flooding
As Rafael neared Havana, the coast suffered with strong flooding and towering seas. Particularly, the famous Malecón barrier in Havana’s old area sank, endangering businesses and local inhabitants alike. With trash and fallen trees all across the city, streets rapidly became torrents.
Hurricane Rafael’s Destructive Path Across Cuba
The Approach: How Rafael Reached Cuba
Rafael’s trip over the Caribbean began as a tropical storm then quickly developed into a Category 3 hurricane. Forecasters had cautioned of its possible intensity days before Hurricane made landfall, with Cuba’s western regions directly in line.
Unprecedented Evacuations and Preparations
In western parts particularly for people in vulnerable, low-lying areas, the Cuban authorities responded to the approaching storm by issuing urgent evacuation orders. Public transit and planes were cancelled in Havana and Varadero while thousands of people were relocated to safer areas.
A Night of Fear and Resilience for Cuban Residents
Many in Havana found the evening to be rife with uncertainty and anxiety. 72-year-old resident Silvia Pérez related her experience getting ready for the storm. Watching her neighbours rush to defend their houses and possessions, she added, “I’m scared for my friends and family.” Living on edge, the night left inhabitants listening to the strong gusts and waited for dawn to evaluate the damage.
Rafael’s Power as It Entered the Gulf of Mexico
Downgrade to Category 2 as Rafael Moves North
Rafael deteriorated to a Category 2 storm when it entered the Gulf of Mexico after inflicting destruction in Cuba. With steady winds of up to 105 mph (170 kph), the storm still poses a major hazard despite its downgrade.
The Path Ahead: What to Expect for the Gulf Coast
Forecasters have forecast Rafael’s path northward towards the Gulf Coast, with towns ranging from the Florida Keys to the Alabama coast bracing for possible effects. Along with the prospect of tornadoes, storm surges, flash floods, and heavy rain are forecast.
U.S. Government Advisories for Travelers in Cuba
A travel alert from the U.S. State Department advised non-essential workers and American nationals in Cuba to leave as soon as feasible. Travellers advised to rethink their intentions to visit Cuba till the hurricane passes.
Cuban Authorities Mobilize in Response to Rafael
Civil Defense Efforts and Public Safety Announcements
Cuba’s Civil Defence urged quick preparations and advised everyone to stay indoors as the storm came in face of Rafael’s destructive might. Around-the-clock, emergency teams strengthened buildings and cleared trash from roadways in sensitive places.
Suspension of Schools and Transportation
Cuban officials halted schools and banned public transit in many places to guarantee public safety. Reducing the likelihood of casualties and injuries during the storm depended critically on these steps.
Hurricane Rafael’s Effects Beyond Cuba
Impact on Jamaica and the Cayman Islands
Rafael’s approach into Cuba delivered strong storms to the Cayman Islands and Jamaica nearby. Both islands saw landslides, power outages, and plenty of rain. While schools in the Cayman Islands remained closed owing to storm damage, blocked roadways in certain parts of Jamaica stopped the restoration of power.
Florida and the Southeast United States Brace for Impact
With heavy rain forecast to extend north, the National Hurricane Centre cautioned of possible effects in Florida. Storm surges up to three feet might be experienced by Florida’s Dry Tortugas, who also face additional Lower Keys risk from tornadoes and flash flooding.
The 2024 Hurricane Season: An Active and Destructive Period
NOAA’s Predictions for an Above-Average Hurricane Season
2024’s hurricane season is expected to be especially active by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). With an expected 17 to 25 named storms—including up to 13 hurricanes—Rafael epitribes the Atlantic’s rising frequency and strength.
Comparing Rafael to Previous Major Hurricanes in Cuba
Rafael’s effects on Cuba remind one of other storms that have devastated the country. But the combined impact of recent hurricanes has left Cuba more susceptible; lengthier recovery timeframes and more severe infrastructure problems abound.