Filmmaker Daniel Ross Dieguez has made an urgent call for assistance to support several families in Yacabo Abajo, Guantánamo, who have been left without homes following the devastating impact of Hurricane Oscar. The natural disaster has severely affected the community, leaving homes in ruins and residents in dire conditions.
Among the families affected are Cándida Ramos Matos, Freddy, Vilma Rodríguez Ramos, Onailis Peligrín Rodríguez, Obrel Pérez Matos, and Marta Rodríguez, who are currently relying on the generosity of neighbors for shelter. These temporary accommodations, although filled with goodwill, are not free from limitations, forcing the displaced to share basic resources in cramped conditions. They have received some donated clothing and food, but the supplies remain insufficient to meet all their needs.
Daniel Ross Dieguez's Call for Aid
Ross Dieguez, who has been directly supporting the hardest-hit communities, is appealing for help to purchase food, potable water, and medicines. He has provided two bank accounts for donations: one in Cuban pesos (CUP) and another in Freely Convertible Currency (MLC). Additionally, those interested in offering assistance can contact him directly via his mobile number for calls or WhatsApp. The filmmaker ensures that every donation reaches the most affected areas through personal deliveries.
The Aftermath of Hurricane Oscar
Hurricane Oscar made landfall in Guantánamo province on October 20, 2024, triggering severe floods and river overflows that particularly impacted the municipalities of San Antonio del Sur, Imías, and Baracoa. In just 24 hours, the region experienced over 500 millimeters of rainfall, isolating communities and destroying numerous homes.
In San Antonio del Sur, where the rivers Sabanalamar and Los Ciguatos flooded large areas, many were caught unprepared due to power outages and a lack of early warnings, leading to chaos and despair. The Cuban government's response to the emergency has faced criticism for its sluggishness and inadequate communication systems, exacerbated by a massive blackout affecting the entire island.
Struggling Recovery Efforts
At least seven individuals lost their lives due to landslides and drowning, with some areas remaining isolated for days, complicating rescue and aid efforts. In Imías, landslides buried several homes, isolating entire communities and hindering the delivery of humanitarian aid and medical care for the injured.
The economic repercussions are also substantial, with extensive damage to coffee, banana, and tomato plantations in the Valle de Caujerí. The Cuban army has deployed resources, including helicopters, to evacuate affected individuals and distribute food and medicine. However, logistical challenges and resource shortages have hampered recovery efforts, which are expected to be prolonged due to the country's ongoing economic crisis.
In these critical moments, external support and solidarity offer a glimmer of hope for these families as they strive to rebuild their lives and overcome the hardships left by the destructive cyclone.