A devastating fire triggered by persistent electrical fluctuations has left 18-year-old Yalienny homeless in Santa Clara. The incident was shared by Mailyn Ramírez on the Facebook group “CUBA LIBÉRATE!,” highlighting the plight of her friend who, after much effort and sacrifice, built her home only to see it completely destroyed due to the unreliable electrical supply.
Yalienny explained that the fire, which completely consumed her modest wooden home, was blamed on the frequent power outages in the area, as initially reported by the electric company and fire department. Fortunately, she was not at home when the fire broke out, as she was out working, as she does every day, to make a living.
Yalienny, who lives alone and works tirelessly to support herself, had just paid off her refrigerator, one of her few possessions. Thankfully, her pet dog, who was inside at the time of the fire, managed to escape unharmed, albeit shaken.
Ramírez has appealed for help, urging people to support her friend who has lost everything: “We’re not asking for money, but anything—sheets, a pot—anything is useful right now.” She also asked to refrain from criticism, noting, “This could happen to anyone; it wasn’t her negligence.”
Those wishing to assist Yalienny can contact her directly at 63841265 or visit her at Calle Monte Final, between Circunvalación and Sub Planta, Ecoin 25 (Subplanta), Santa Clara.
Other Recent Fires Linked to Power Instability
In October, amidst a massive blackout in Cuba, an apartment caught fire in the 23 Alamar area of Havana when the family attempted to cook with wood due to the lack of electricity. A video shared on TikTok by Lidia Rodríguez revealed that two children were present during the incident, though fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Also in October, a significant fire erupted at a raw materials center in the Güira de Melena municipality in Artemisa. One commenter noted that the fire destroyed stored plastic, while others suggested it was a protest act against the severe energy crisis plaguing the country since October 18.