We’ve experienced our fair share of extreme weather so far this year, with storms such as Hurricane Milton leading to extensive evacuation orders across Florida back in October, and everything from extreme heat to extreme rainfall across Europe.
However, hurricane season in the Caribbean isn’t technically over till the end of this month, and over the last few days, Cuba has experienced the effects of a category three Storm which led to island-wide power outages.
While the storm (named Rafael) has now been downgraded and is gradually moving away from Cuba, the effects are still being felt. Here is everything you need to know if you have a trip booked.
What’s happening in Cuba?
Storm Rafael made landfall in Cuba as a category three hurricane on Wednesday (November 6) afternoon, the first storm of that ferocity to do so since 2022. It brought rains, flooding and violent wind and according to the Weather Network, Cuba’s national electric grid collapsed as a result.
‘This morning we assessed the damage caused by Rafael after passing through our country,’ said Prime Minister Mnauel Marrero Cruz, in this post, ‘There are major damages in Artemisa, Mayabeque and Havana. Recovery work is already underway.’
It has since been downgraded to a category two storm, however, it’s thought that Rafael could still bring high risks of life-threatening storm surges in Cuba, and flooding rains have even been experienced in Georgia and South Carolina.
Is it safe to travel?
The FCDO updated its travel advice for Cuba on November 7, and it reads: ‘Cuba experienced a nationwide electric grid outage following the passage of hurricane Rafael. Power is in the process of being restored. When restored, supply will be intermittent. Airports in Havana and Varadero have reopened but passengers should expect disruptions and check with their airlines or tour operators. Local transport may be disrupted. You should monitor local media for updates, and take precautions including conserving water, food and mobile phone charge.’
Where’s the storm heading next?
Though meteorologists first thought hurricane Rafael was headed straight for the US, it’s now expected to move over the southern Gulf of Mexico this weekend, where it will likely slow once it’s met with dry air.
Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out Travel newsletter for all the latest travel news and best stuff happening across the world.