Severe rainfall over the weekend has left the Cañizo bridge in Guamá, Santiago de Cuba, facing imminent collapse. This critical local transit route has suffered extensive damage, as reported by official broadcaster TV Santiago on its Facebook page. The downpour severely eroded one corner of the bridge, exposing the concrete base and compromising its structural integrity.
Currently, the only intact and operational section of the bridge is the top slab, posing significant danger to both vehicles and pedestrians following the impact of Tropical Storm Imelda in eastern Cuba. Any additional weight could further destabilize the bridge, prompting officials to urge extreme caution when navigating the area.
The Cañizo bridge is a vital connection for several rural communities to the municipal center, frequently used by residents, transporters, and essential services. So far, no accidents have been reported, but authorities advise restricting traffic and implementing safety measures to avert potential accidents.
Community vigilance and continuous monitoring will be crucial in the coming hours as infrastructure specialists plan intervention strategies. Imelda's impact wasn't limited to this bridge; the Charco Mono reservoir, which had been severely affected by drought in Santiago de Cuba, saw a remarkable recovery. In just 24 hours, it rose from a critically low level to 55.1 percent of its capacity due to torrential rains.
In another instance, a temporary bridge in Imías, Guantánamo, collapsed on Saturday, leaving several communities isolated. Moreover, five individuals were rescued after the Sígua River overflowed in its namesake village in Santiago de Cuba, a result of the relentless downpours that battered eastern Cuba.
Tragically, the most heartbreaking event caused by Imelda was the fatal collapse of a house in Santiago de Cuba due to a landslide triggered by the heavy rains. A 60-year-old man named Luis Mario Pérez Coiterio lost his life while sleeping during the incident.
Impact of Heavy Rains in Eastern Cuba
What caused the damage to the Cañizo bridge in Santiago de Cuba?
The Cañizo bridge was damaged due to severe rainfall that eroded part of its structure, exposing the concrete base and compromising its stability.
What safety measures are being recommended for the Cañizo bridge?
Authorities recommend extreme caution when using the bridge, limiting traffic, and implementing safety measures to prevent accidents.
How did Tropical Storm Imelda affect the Charco Mono reservoir?
The Charco Mono reservoir in Santiago de Cuba experienced a significant recovery, increasing to 55.1 percent capacity after heavy rains brought by Tropical Storm Imelda.
What were the consequences of the Sígua River overflow?
The Sígua River overflow led to the rescue of five individuals in the village of Sígua, Santiago de Cuba, due to intense rainfall in the region.