Hurricane Oscar’s Aftermath: Cuba Evacuates 66,000 in Face of New Storm Threat
Cuba’s Eastern Province Braces for Heavy Rains
More than 66,000 people have been evacuated in Cuba’s easternmost province of Guantanamo, ahead of heavy rains that threaten a region already badly hit by Hurricane Oscar. The majority of evacuees are in the municipalities San Antonio del Sur and Imias, where Oscar caused historic flooding and killed eight people a fortnight ago.
Cuba’s Meteorological Institute Warns of New Storm Threat
Cuba’s Meteorological Institute warned on Sunday of "showers, rains, and thunderstorms towards the eastern end" of the country. In addition, an area of low pressure south of Jamaica is also being monitored, it added. "We are constantly monitoring the meteorological situation over Cuba and its possible evolution," wrote Cuban president Miguel Diaz-Canel on X.
Hurricane Oscar’s Devastating Impact
Oscar, a Category 1 hurricane that hit Cuba on October 20, left Guantanamo with saturated soils and draining reservoirs, increasing the risk of flooding in several municipalities in the province. According to official figures, more than 12,000 homes, as well as roads and almost 20,000 hectares of crops – mainly coffee – were damaged by the storm.
Cuba’s Economic Crisis Worsens
Cuba is going through its worst economic crisis since the 1990s, marked by shortages of medicines and fuel, frequent power cuts, and a wave of migration unprecedented since the 1959 Castro revolution. The country’s economic woes have been exacerbated by the devastating impact of Hurricane Oscar, which has left many in the eastern province struggling to recover.
Conclusion
As the storm clouds gather again over Cuba, the government is taking swift action to evacuate those in the path of the new storm. With the country already reeling from the aftermath of Hurricane Oscar, the threat of new heavy rains and flooding is a worrying development. As Cuba navigates its economic crisis, it is clear that the road to recovery will be long and challenging.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the current situation in Cuba?
Cuba is facing a new storm threat, with heavy rains and thunderstorms expected to hit the eastern province of Guantanamo. - How many people have been evacuated?
More than 66,000 people have been evacuated in the province of Guantanamo, with the majority in the municipalities of San Antonio del Sur and Imias. - What is the impact of Hurricane Oscar?
Hurricane Oscar caused historic flooding and killed eight people in the province of Guantanamo, damaging over 12,000 homes, roads, and almost 20,000 hectares of crops.