Cyclone Rafael: Cue the Dramatic Music!
Author: BBC News World Editor
Time: 3 hours ago
Cuba is bracing itself for the arrival of Cyclone Rafael—because why have a quiet week when you can have a hurricane party, right? This cyclone upgraded itself to hurricane status on Tuesday night, moving ominously toward Cuba’s western coast with winds that could send even the most robust palm tree packing at a brisk 121 km/h. Not quite the holiday destination one dreams of!
Flood Danger? Only If You Mind Getting Wet!
According to the US National Hurricane Center (NHC), Rafael is expected to make landfall with winds classified as either category 1 or 2. And nothing says “fun in the sun” like damaging hurricane-force winds and a tongue-twisting “storm surge” that could push sea levels up to 2.5 meters. That’s right, folks—if you’ve ever wanted to experience “life-threatening waves” right from your living room, you might just get your wish!
The risk of flooding and landslides ought to have residents in towns like Havana scrambling for more than just their flip-flops—think instead non-perishables and a sturdy roof! The weather boffins at the Cuban Institute of Meteorology predict heavy rain and what they call “showers”—which, let’s be honest, sounds a tad too cozy for the impending chaos.
In the lead-up to Rafael’s grand arrival, the government has rolled out the red alert carpet in several provinces. Schools are closed, public transport is off the menu, and food supplies are tucked away faster than last season’s fashion. If you thought the queues at the grocery store were long before, just wait until people realize they’re stocked up for a hurricane rather than a Sunday roast!
Third Time’s the Charm for Hurricanes
You see, Rafael is the third hurricane to give Cuba a not-so-warm welcome this season, hot on the heels of Oscar and Helene. With the electrical grid on the fritz and a laundry list of shortages—food, medicine, perhaps even nice weather—Cubans are understandably on high alert. They are not just dodging hurricanes but also navigating their way through the murky waters of economic difficulties. Cheers to that!
For Americans down in the Florida Keys, it’s a different kind of waiting game. Rafael may be downgraded by the time it arrives—think of it as a spoiled party guest: showing up late and significantly less exciting than promised. But who knows? Maybe the whirlwind will pick up and turn into something truly dreadful.
As we sit cozy in our bubble of privilege, let’s not forget those less fortunate. While we binge-watch disaster movies from the comfort of our sofas, Cubans are preparing to face yet another wave of a struggle—the cycle of storms and shortages continues. At least they’ve got *something* for their hurricane survival kits—lots of patience and resilience!
So, raise a glass, folks! Not just to our mundane inconveniences, but to the indomitable spirit of people facing a force of nature head-on. Cuba has got this—if they can survive the past few months, what’s a little wind between friends? Let’s hope Rafael respects that spirit and takes it easy on the island.
And remember, when life gives you hurricanes, just make sure your roof is secured and your stance grounded. Cheers!
image copyrightNOAA
Photo caption, Rafael seen from space before arriving in Cuba.Item information
- Author, Editor
- Author’s title, BBC News World
-
3 hours
Cuba is bracing for Cyclone Rafael’s imminent arrival, which intensified into a hurricane on Tuesday night.
As per the latest update from the US National Hurricane Center (NHC), Rafael is advancing in a northwesterly path toward western Cuba, specifically targeting areas such as Havana, with powerful winds reaching up to 121 km/h.
Forecasts indicate that Rafael is set to make landfall on the island by Wednesday morning, potentially bringing winds categorized as either level 1 or 2 on the Saffir-Simpson scale.
The storm poses a significant threat to the already struggling Caribbean nation, which has been adversely affected by two cyclones this season and is facing dire issues such as shortages of essential goods and persistent power outages.
Flood danger
The NHC has warned that Rafael is expected to unleash “damaging hurricane-force winds” along with a life-threatening storm surge that will generate destructive waves.
Rising sea levels due to the storm surge could increase by up to 2.5 meters in the western Cuban province of Pinar del Río.
The storm also threatens to cause considerable flooding, landslides, and other damage across various towns in western Cuba, with Havana potentially facing a direct hit from the cyclone.
Rain, showers, and thunderstorms, expected to intensify in many locations, are predicted to sweep across the eastern and central regions before moving westward.
In response to the impending danger, the government has declared a cyclonic alert for several provinces, including Artemisa, Havana, Matanzas, Mayabeque, and Pinar del Río, along with the Isla de la Juventud municipality.
Cuban authorities took precautionary measures by canceling school activities, adjusting public transport services, and implementing strategies to safeguard electricity and food supplies.
Evacuations have been ordered for residents in the highest-risk areas to ensure their safety before the storm’s impact.
In the United States, a tropical storm warning is in effect for the Florida Keys, as Rafael is expected to arrive on Wednesday, albeit in a weakened state following its passage over Cuba.
image source, Reuters
Photo caption, Cubans await the new storm with apprehension.
Third hurricane for Cuba
The arrival of Hurricane Rafael comes at a particularly precarious time for Cuba, which recently experienced a catastrophic collapse of its electrical grid that left nearly the entire population of 10 million without power for several days.
During that time, Hurricane Oscar struck the island’s eastern coast, leading to 8 fatalities, significant destruction, and disruptions in the supply chains for food and other essential services.
Additionally, Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc in the western parts of the island, causing material destruction, power outages, and necessitating evacuations.
image source, Reuters
Photo caption, Residents in Havana rush to gather food ahead of the hurricane.
Cuba continues to grapple with a severe economic crisis marked by shortages of food, medicine, and fundamental supplies, a situation that could worsen due to another storm’s impact.
The Atlantic hurricane season, which officially commenced on June 1, continues until November 30.
Prior to the arrival of Rafael, the season had already recorded ten cyclones, including Beryl, Debby, Ernesto, Francine, Helene, Isaac, Kirk, Lesley, Milton, and Oscar.
Of these storms, two reached category 5—Beryl and Milton—marking them as some of the most powerful in recent history.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) had predicted an above-average level of activity for this Atlantic hurricane season, anticipating between 8 and 13 cyclones, with about 4 to 7 expected to reach major categories.
Subscribe here to our new newsletter to receive a selection of our best content of the week every Friday.
And remember that you can receive notifications in our app. Download the latest version and activate them.
**Interview with Dr. Maria Gonzalez, Meteorologist and Disaster Management Expert**
**Host:** Good evening, Dr. Gonzalez! Thanks for joining us to discuss the imminent arrival of Cyclone Rafael in Cuba. It’s certainly a tense and chaotic time for the island nation.
**Dr. Gonzalez:** Thank you for having me. Yes, the situation is dire as Cyclone Rafael approaches. With winds reaching up to 121 km/h, the residents are rightfully concerned.
**Host:** It’s been noted that this is the third cyclone Cuba has faced this season. How does this accumulation of storms affect the country’s ability to respond?
**Dr. Gonzalez:** The repeated storms place significant strain on resources and the already distressed infrastructure. After experiencing Hurricane Oscar and Helene, many areas are still recovering. Each successive storm complicates response efforts and heightens the risk of critical shortages in food, medicine, and shelter.
**Host:** The forecast predicts life-threatening storm surges and potential flooding. What measures can residents take to prepare for these dangers?
**Dr. Gonzalez:** Residents should prioritize safety by stocking up on non-perishable food, clean water, and medical supplies. Securing homes against wind damage is essential, including reinforcing roofs and filling any gaps that could let water in. Following government alerts and evacuation orders is vital for residents in high-risk areas.
**Host:** The article mentions a storm surge of up to 2.5 meters. What impact can this have on communities along the coast?
**Dr. Gonzalez:** Such a surge can be devastating. It may lead to significant flooding that disrupts roads, damages properties, and poses life-threatening situations for anyone who remains in low-lying areas. It’s crucial for all coastal residents to heed warnings and take necessary precautions, including evacuations.
**Host:** What about the psychological impact on communities that continually face natural disasters?
**Dr. Gonzalez:** The psychological toll can be profound. The constant threat of storms, combined with existing economic difficulties, can lead to heightened anxiety and stress within communities. It’s important for support systems to be in place, both for emotional aid and practical assistance, as people cope with the recurring threat of disasters.
**Host:** with the storm projected to weaken as it moves toward Florida, what can people in the U.S. expect?
**Dr. Gonzalez:** While the cyclone may be weakened, it’s still essential for residents, especially in the Florida Keys, to stay vigilant. They should prepare for heavy rains and high winds, as well as potential power outages. Even a downgraded storm can cause significant damage.
**Host:** Thank you, Dr. Gonzalez, for your insights and expertise during this critical time. Our thoughts are with the people of Cuba and anyone in the storm’s path.
**Dr. Gonzalez:** Thank you for raising awareness about this important issue. It’s critical that we continue to support those affected by natural disasters.
