The town of Güira de Melena, located in the Artemisa province, has been severely impacted by the wrath of Hurricane Rafael. The destruction captured in images by the ARTV telecenter from this western Cuban province has been described as "devastating."
Downed trees, sheets of fibrocement scattered across streets, collapsed structures, and debris-laden roads paint a bleak picture for the communities battered by the storm since this morning. Facebook user Yaneidis Córdova Escobar also posted photos showing the extent of the destruction in Güira de Melena caused by Rafael. Images depicted toppled electrical transformers, crumbling walls, roofs caved in, and shattered windows and doors.
Widespread Damage to Infrastructure and Agriculture
The Tricontinental baseball stadium, a notable landmark in the area, was not spared from Rafael’s fury, losing sections of its roofing. Photos available on the Facebook page “MINFAR Cuba” further highlighted the agricultural devastation suffered by this community.
As Rafael swept through the Artemisa province, it left behind a trail of destruction, including significant damage to several hospitals in this western region. Despite the extensive damage, which is still being assessed, authorities have not yet reported any loss of human life due to the storm.