A Cuban resident has sparked laughter, reactions, and comments on TikTok by demonstrating "one of the ways" people bathe on the island when there is no electricity. Yan Carlos, known on the platform as @con_cuba_barber, lives in Italy but is currently on vacation in Cuba, as he announced a few days ago on the same social network.
“When the power goes out and you need to find a way to cool your body,” he wrote in his TikTok post, sharing a video of himself 'bathing' in a backyard using water from a tank. “This is one way people bathe here in Cuba when there is no power,” he comments while refreshing himself.
The video has generated a variety of responses on the social media platform. Some users expressed nostalgia, saying, “It reminded me of when I lived in Cuba”; “I used to bathe like that, it's normal”; “How refreshing, I have a shower here but I’d love to do that”; "Even when there is power, we do this."
Others showed surprise or disapproval of his method: “And the shower gel to wash all your parts????”; “Never in my time living there did I bathe this way, that's unsanitary.”
However, beyond the humorous tone of the video and the comments, the electricity situation on the island is far from a joke. The constant power interruptions and prolonged blackouts are a sad part of everyday life for Cubans, forcing them to resort to improvised solutions for everyday tasks.
This reality, although depicted lightly on social media, is a reflection of what Cubans endure due to the incessant power outages.
Understanding Power Outages in Cuba
The article highlights the daily struggles faced by Cubans due to frequent power outages. Here are some common questions and answers that provide more insight into the electricity crisis in Cuba.
Why are power outages so frequent in Cuba?
Power outages in Cuba are frequent due to the country's outdated infrastructure, insufficient maintenance, and a lack of resources to upgrade the electrical grid.
How do Cubans cope with frequent blackouts?
Cubans cope with frequent blackouts by using alternative methods such as generators, battery-operated devices, and collecting rainwater or using tank water for daily needs like bathing.
What impact do power outages have on daily life in Cuba?
Power outages significantly affect daily life in Cuba, disrupting work, education, and essential services. They also lead to food spoilage and hinder access to clean water.