The ongoing crisis that the Cuban regime faces with fuel shortages and widespread blackouts has forced them to postpone the traditional Meteoro 2024 drill, which is conducted to mobilize the population ahead of the hurricane season.
The State Civil Defense Headquarters of Cuba announced on the social media platform X that it had decided to suspend the event "due to the complex situation of the national electrical system."
The drill, originally scheduled for this weekend, has been rescheduled for May 31 and June 1, seemingly with the optimism that the current situation in the country will improve within the next two weeks.
In a recent interview with Spanish journalist Ignacio Ramonet, published in the official Granma newspaper, ruler Miguel Díaz-Canel acknowledged that the island is "in an extremely complex situation regarding energy."
He enumerated that under his leadership, the country faces "electricity generation failures due to a lack of fuel, inadequate maintenance, or the coincidence of both factors." Ultimately, he attributed the blackouts to "technological issues" and the organization of "maintenance strategies" aimed at ensuring "less impact during the summer."
Despite the leader's justifications, it is the people who remain under constant stress due to the blackouts, which have lasted more than 14 hours in some areas.
Last Thursday night, protests erupted in Baracoa, Guantánamo, where people took to the streets to express their outrage over the severe lack of electricity and food shortages.
"We want power and food!" several people shouted during the demonstrations, which did not involve any damage or altercations with the police.
Understanding the Impact of Cuba's Energy Crisis
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers to help clarify the current energy crisis in Cuba and its repercussions.
Why was the Meteoro 2024 drill postponed?
The Meteoro 2024 drill was postponed due to the complex situation of Cuba's national electrical system, marked by fuel shortages and widespread blackouts.
When is the Meteoro 2024 drill rescheduled for?
The drill has been rescheduled for May 31 and June 1.
What are the main reasons behind Cuba's blackouts?
The blackouts are primarily due to failures in electricity generation caused by a lack of fuel, insufficient maintenance, or both factors combined. Technological issues and maintenance strategies have also been cited.
How has the public reacted to these blackouts?
The public has reacted with significant distress, leading to protests in areas like Baracoa, Guantánamo, where people have demanded power and food.