Thu Nov 07 04:19:10 UTC 2024: ## Hurricane Rafael Pummels Cuba, Knocking Out Power Grid
**HAVANA, CUBA -** Hurricane Rafael, a powerful Category 3 storm, made landfall in southwest Cuba early this morning, packing winds of 115 mph. The storm’s impact has left the entire country without electricity, and the National Hurricane Center is warning of potentially “life-threatening storm surge, damaging winds, and flash floods” across western Cuba.
The full extent of the damage is still being assessed, but early reports indicate widespread power outages and structural damage. The hurricane is expected to weaken as it moves over land, but the threat of heavy rain and flooding remains.
Authorities are urging residents to stay indoors and take precautions against the storm’s dangerous conditions. Emergency services are on high alert, and rescue teams are being deployed to affected areas.
First Piper 