Hurricane Rafael, captured in satellite imagery over the Gulf of Mexico on November 8, 2024, has weakened to a tropical storm and is anticipated to dissipate soon. Initially wreaking havoc across the Caribbean, the storm hit Cuba as a Category 3 hurricane, leaving significant damage in its wake. On Saturday, Rafael was 290 miles north-northwest of Progreso, Mexico, with maximum winds of 50 mph, moving west-northwest at 6 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center in Miami. The storm is expected to continue southward, toward southern Mexico, while losing strength. Despite its weakening, forecasters warn of dangerous surf and rip currents in the region.
Earlier, Rafael pummeled Jamaica and the Cayman Islands, causing power outages and mudslides. In Cuba, the hurricane’s impact was severe, with widespread power outages, the evacuation of 283,000 residents, and the destruction of 461 homes. Debris-filled, flooded streets were left behind, complicating recovery efforts as many remained without electricity over the weekend. The Cuban government is actively working to restore power. In response to the crisis, Russia announced it would provide Cuba with 80,000 tons of diesel and $62 million in equipment to aid recovery efforts.
This storm adds to the recent challenges faced by Cuba, which has endured widespread power outages and another deadly hurricane that claimed at least six lives in recent weeks. As the region grapples with these compounded hardships, the resilience of its people is being tested repeatedly.
Original Story https://www.cnbc.com/2024/11/09/rafael-weakens-to-tropical-storm-over-gulf-of-mexico-after-barreling-through-cuba-as-a-hurricane.html
Category :
Tags:
