On Saturday evening, a powerful explosion reverberated through the streets of Güira de Melena, a town in the province of Artemisa, following a dramatic incident at a local power station. Around 7:00 p.m., an explosion occurred, leading to a large-scale fire and a complete blackout in the area.
As reported by Radio Artemisa, the blaze erupted from a transformer at the Güira de Melena substation, known as substation 4,000, affecting roughly 4,600 customers. Karel León, the chief secretary of the Municipal Party Bureau, assured that no human lives or homes were harmed in the incident.
"A skilled team is investigating the cause, and the entire municipality of Güira de Melena is without service, except for the Carretas Factory and Gabriel," detailed the report. Officials from the Party, the Government, the Ministry of the Interior (MININT), the Fire Brigade, and the Red Cross responded promptly to the scene.
The fire was swiftly extinguished, and while the investigation into its origin continues, efforts to restore unaffected circuits have already begun. In the meantime, local authorities have mobilized to support the affected population with early morning food preparations by Commerce units, as well as the sale of charcoal and gasoline for generators.
Facebook page La Tijera shared several photos and a video captured at the location while the fire was still active. "Authorities are currently investigating whether the incident was caused by an electrical overload or if it was an intentional act," the post noted.
This disaster adds to the ongoing saga of issues surrounding Cuba's fragile energy infrastructure, leaving the entire area in darkness and impacting both homes and small businesses. Residents express that this power outage further disrupts their daily routines, already plagued by frequent blackouts across the island.
The event unfolds amid an unprecedented energy crisis, where prolonged power cuts are part of everyday life, and any malfunction in the grid can trigger chaos in entire communities. Images on social media depict towering smoke and flames above the substation, as concerned onlookers and residents watched the unsettling scene unfold.
No human casualties have been reported thus far, but the material damage to the facility is considered extensive.
Understanding the Güira de Melena Power Outage
What caused the explosion at the Güira de Melena substation?
Investigations are underway to determine whether the explosion was due to an electrical overload or if it was a deliberate act.
How many customers are affected by the power outage?
Approximately 4,600 customers have been affected by the blackout following the explosion.
What measures are being taken to assist the affected population?
Local authorities have initiated support efforts, including food preparation by Commerce units and providing charcoal and gasoline for generators.