A wildfire broke out on Tuesday, March 25, at the iconic Loma de la Cruz in the province of Holguín, as reported by citizens on social media. Several individuals noted that the blaze spread rapidly, endangering nearby homes. Some residents highlighted the absence of firefighters in the area, while others mentioned that locals tried to battle the flames with limited resources.
"The hill burned completely, and not a single firefighter arrived," lamented a resident on Facebook. Another user reported that in the nearby community of Yaguabo, the fire reached sugarcane fields, threatening an agricultural cooperative and at least 27 homes.
Subsequent rainfall helped to extinguish the fire, yet the concern remains among locals due to the frequent occurrence of such incidents. "That hill catches fire every month. It's either negligence or something unusual," expressed another frustrated user.
Local authorities have yet to release an official statement regarding the incident. Besides being a cultural symbol of Holguín, Loma de la Cruz is located close to urban centers, increasing the risk during fires.
This incident is part of a series of fires that occurred over the weekend in other parts of Holguín, such as Pinares de Mayarí, where a significant wildfire was reported and later controlled by the Forest Rangers, Flora and Fauna Company, and the Agroforestry Company. The fire affected three main areas: Loma de Guilarte, Los Ñames, and near Los Exóticos, with more than 80 hectares impacted by Monday afternoon.
The community demands increased vigilance and preventive measures from the authorities to prevent property damage and safeguard families living in the area.
Understanding the Fire Risks at Loma de la Cruz
What caused the recent fire at Loma de la Cruz?
The exact cause of the fire has not been determined, and authorities have not yet released an official statement. Residents speculate that it may be due to negligence or other unusual factors.
How did the community respond to the fire?
Without firefighters present, locals attempted to control the blaze using the limited resources they had available. Rainfall eventually helped to put out the fire.
What areas are most at risk during these fires?
Loma de la Cruz, due to its proximity to urban centers, poses a significant risk. Nearby communities and agricultural areas are also vulnerable, as seen in the recent incident affecting Yaguabo.