A tragic incident unfolded on Sunday at Juraguá Beach in Santiago de Cuba, where a man reportedly drowned. Independent journalist Yoasmany Mayeta Labrada shared preliminary information about the event on his Facebook page.
According to his report, the deceased was a dark-skinned man aged between 40 and 47, who was alone at the time of the incident. This tragedy marks the beginning of the summer season, a period when beaches in eastern Cuba see a significant increase in visitors.
Despite the allure, this time of year also sees a rise in such unfortunate events, particularly in areas like Juraguá, notorious among locals for its treacherous underwater currents. Frequent visitors and residents have long warned about the dangers of swimming in this region, which, despite being monitored, often witnesses reckless behavior from some beachgoers.
Following the incident, several Cubans expressed their condolences on social media, emphasizing the perilous nature of this beach. Comments indicate that the victim's family has been notified. One user, Suleydis Carmañol, mentioned he was from Dos Caminos, while another, Yunirelis Quiala, noted he was from the Monte de La Mejorana area, both in the municipality of San Luis, Santiago de Cuba.
Renervis Alpízar Barroso recalled a recent tragedy involving a young girl who drowned in Chalón, even without strong currents. "Imagine with currents," he remarked. Iván Martínez added, "Very dangerous beach, don't be complacent and never leave children or young people alone; it’s said to have currents and sandbanks."
Hernández Ramírez recounted a similar incident from the 1990s: "A comrade from the Angola war went to Juraguá on his honeymoon and disappeared after going after a ball... never to be seen again."
"This beach is the most dangerous in Santiago, it has underwater currents," noted Dany AG Lestapi. Lisandra González Rodríguez cautioned, "Family, be vigilant as summer has arrived. Watch over your children. Juraguá Beach is extremely dangerous. Stay alert to avoid such tragedies. Rest in peace, my condolences to his family. How sad."
Earlier this year, another drowning incident occurred when the lifeless body of César Valentín Pérez García was discovered in Songo La Maya's river, known as "El Saltadero." Witnesses reported he had jumped into the water and never resurfaced. Images shared by journalist Yosmany Mayeta depicted a crowd gathered by the river as divers and César's relatives searched for his body.
In April, the body of an 8-year-old boy, missing for days, was found at Villa Los Pinos Beach in Boca de Camarioca, Matanzas. Radio Victoria de Girón reported his discovery near Varadero's 54th street after an extensive rescue operation involving local fishermen, coast guards, and numerous community members.
Santiago de Cuba Beach Safety Concerns
What makes Juraguá Beach particularly dangerous?
Juraguá Beach is known for its perilous underwater currents, which pose a significant risk to swimmers, especially those unfamiliar with the area.
How have locals responded to the dangers at Juraguá Beach?
Local residents and frequent visitors have repeatedly warned about the dangers of swimming at Juraguá Beach due to its strong currents and have advised beachgoers to exercise caution.
What safety measures are in place at Juraguá Beach?
While there is some monitoring at Juraguá Beach, the presence of lifeguards and other safety measures may not be sufficient to prevent accidents, particularly given the beach's hazardous conditions.