The US-based National Hurricane Center (NHC) has reported Hurricane Sandy, which swept over Jamaica yesterday (Wednesday), killing one, has strengthened into a strong category two hurricane as it moves into southeast Cuba today.
Carrying maximum sustained winds of 110 mph (175 kph), the hurricane hit land just west of Santiago de Cuba. A hurricane watch is now in place in the Bahamas, while Florida has also been placed on tropical storm watch.
Around 1,700 people have been evacuated in Cuba, according to local officials.
The NHC has meanwhile warned that heavy rains could produce life-threatening flash floods and mudslides.
In Jamaica, Hurricane Sandy caused widespread power outages, flooded streets and damaged buildings. More than 1,000 people sought refuge in shelters, while one man was killed when he was crushed by falling boulders.