Authorities in Havana are taking proactive measures in response to forecasts predicting severe rainfall in western Cuba in the coming days. The primary goal, they emphasize, is to protect human lives. "Forecast models indicate intense rainfall. Havana is preparing to prevent the loss of human life and safeguard people's property," stated Lieutenant Colonel Yunier Hernández during a government meeting held on Sunday.
The city of Havana faces significant vulnerabilities, with many buildings at risk, areas prone to flooding even with minimal rainfall, and a lack of essential resources such as fuel, potable water, and food. The city's public infrastructure is also inadequate. This situation is exacerbated by the ongoing economic and energy crisis in the country.
Proactive Measures Amid Potential Tropical Cyclone
Faced with these challenges, the authorities have opted to act preemptively, gearing up to tackle the potential impacts of Potential Tropical Cyclone 18. It is crucial for residents to stay informed about the progression of this meteorological event, which continues to organize in the western Caribbean.
Forecasts suggest that the system could develop into a tropical storm within hours and potentially make landfall as a hurricane in western Cuba by Wednesday. People must be ready to evacuate if necessary.
Government's Plan to Mitigate Flood Risks
Heavy downpours and strong winds are expected to be the main challenges. The Havana government reports that efforts are already underway to trim public trees and dredge rivers to deepen channels at their mouths. In Malecón, drainage problems persist due to a sinkhole on C Street, one of the areas most susceptible to flooding during heavy rains in the capital.
Officials have stressed the importance of staying informed through official channels. Warnings will be issued as the weather phenomenon evolves, but maintaining discipline is crucial to preventing loss of life.
Lessons from Recent Disasters in Eastern Cuba
Recently, eastern Cuba was struck by Hurricane Oscar, leaving towns in Guantánamo devastated. Authorities have not disclosed the total number of deaths and missing persons, but entire families are believed to have perished. The hurricane hit amidst widespread blackouts, leaving residents uninformed and unprepared. Many failed to evacuate in time. Residents of towns like San Antonio del Sur claim the government abandoned them, and only initiated mass evacuations after the rains persisted.
A natural disaster similar to the one in Guantánamo could cause substantial loss of life and property in Havana. Thus, the regime is determined to avoid a repeat scenario in the capital, prompting mobilization efforts starting this Sunday.