Hurricane Oscar's impact on eastern Cuba has left millions of residents without power, exacerbating an already challenging situation. The storm made landfall near Baracoa as a Category 1 hurricane, bringing strong winds and heavy rainfall to the region. As a result, the nation's electric grid has struggled to cope, with repeated attempts to restore power proving unsuccessful.
In the capital city of Havana, residents are facing days without electricity, leading to a range of difficulties. People have been forced to spend time outdoors due to poor lighting, with some resorting to playing games like dominoes to pass the time. The stifling heat indoors has prompted children to sleep outside, while schools have been closed until Thursday.
The National Hurricane Center has warned of significant rainfall in eastern Cuba, with some areas expected to receive up to 18 inches of rain. The storm has also affected neighboring countries, with The Bahamas experiencing strong winds and heavy downpours.
The power outages in Cuba have sparked frustration among the population, leading to protests and disruptions. The Cuban Electrical Union reported that over 200,000 people in Havana had power restored briefly before another collapse occurred. President Miguel Diaz-Canel has condemned the protests, emphasizing the need to maintain public order.
The energy crisis in Cuba has been attributed to a combination of factors, including US economic sanctions, recent hurricanes, and infrastructure challenges. The government has taken measures to conserve power, including canceling classes and instructing non-essential workers to stay home.
Despite the challenges, some aspects of daily life continue, with tourists still exploring Havana's streets in classic cars. However, many hotels are facing fuel shortages for their generators, impacting essential services. The situation at Havana's airport remains precarious, with limited power affecting operations.
As the country grapples with the aftermath of Hurricane Oscar, health facilities are operating on generators to ensure vital services are maintained. The government is working to address the energy crisis and provide support to those affected by the storm.
