A power pole collapsed this Tuesday in Santiago de Cuba, and the delay by the Electric Company in addressing the issue has led residents to question whether the regime is prepared to handle the rains and winds of Hurricane Beryl.
Journalist Yosmany Mayeta reported the incident on Facebook, which occurred on Segunda de Sorribe Street, between Cuabitas and Patricio Lumumba, criticizing the local government's inaction that endangers the community. The street remains open to pedestrian and vehicle traffic despite the fallen pole.
Mayeta noted that neighbors reported the fallen pole to the Electric Company, but they have yet to respond to the scene. This raises fears of a slow government response when the province is impacted by Hurricane Beryl.
Government Inaction and Public Safety
Officials have blamed the delay in fixing the issue on a lack of materials and transportation, according to Mayeta. "And the hurricane hasn't even hit yet," said a man in the video shared by the independent journalist.
"I call on the Electric Company of Santiago de Cuba to solve these problems before the rains and winds of Hurricane Beryl begin," demanded Mayeta.
Although forecasts predict that the eye of Hurricane Beryl will stay well away from Cuban territory, the island will still be on the "dirty side" of the powerful meteorological event, which means it will experience the strongest winds and rains.
According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC) forecast, some areas of the country could feel wind gusts up to 63 km/h from Wednesday morning through Thursday.
This danger prompted rescuers in Santiago de Cuba to issue a warning to fishermen, urging them to take extra precautions due to the approach of Hurricane Beryl.
Concerns and Preparations for Hurricane Beryl in Santiago de Cuba
Given the recent incident and the impending threat of Hurricane Beryl, here are some key questions and answers to help residents understand the situation and prepare accordingly.
What caused the delay in fixing the fallen power pole?
Officials have cited a lack of materials and transportation as the primary reasons for the delay.
What measures are being taken to prepare for Hurricane Beryl?
Rescuers have issued warnings to fishermen and are urging the Electric Company to address infrastructure issues promptly.
How severe are the expected conditions from Hurricane Beryl in Cuba?
Although the eye of the hurricane will pass well off Cuban territory, the island will still experience strong winds and heavy rains, with gusts up to 63 km/h.