Cuba's ongoing struggle with power outages and economic instability is being further complicated by the arrival of Hurricane Rafael, which could exacerbate the humanitarian crisis on the island.
The activation of the National Defense Council indicates the seriousness of the situation, as the government mobilizes resources and personnel to mitigate the impact of the storm.
Evacuations are critical in preventing loss of life, especially in areas still recovering from previous storms, highlighting the need for effective disaster management strategies in Cuba.
If Hurricane Rafael makes landfall as anticipated, it could lead to significant flooding and landslides in Cuba, particularly in already affected areas from Hurricane Oscar.
The ongoing power crisis in Cuba may worsen as the hurricane impacts infrastructure, leading to prolonged outages and hindering recovery efforts.
The economic implications of repeated hurricanes could deepen Cuba's existing crises, affecting food and medical supply chains further.
Tropical Storm Rafael has intensified into a Category 2 hurricane as it approaches Cuba, potentially impacting the island already recovering from Hurricane Oscar, which caused significant damage and fatalities. The U.S. National Hurricane Center reported that Rafael is moving northwest with maximum sustained winds of 160 km/h (100 mph) and is expected to make landfall in Cuba shortly. Authorities have issued evacuation orders for vulnerable populations, especially in the eastern province of Guantanamo, where over 66,000 residents have been evacuated. Cuba's National Defense Council has been activated to manage the crisis, emphasizing the need for vigilance and preparation.
In the wake of Hurricane Oscar's devastation, which resulted in at least eight deaths and severe flooding in Guantanamo, the Cuban government is ramping up efforts to safeguard its citizens. With ongoing power outages affecting the island, the situation is dire, as the country grapples with a chronic energy crisis exacerbated by the recent hurricanes. The U.S. State Department has advised non-essential personnel to leave Cuba, highlighting the potential risks associated with Rafael. The hurricane warnings extend across multiple Cuban provinces, with a tropical storm warning also issued for parts of Florida.
