On Thursday, relentless rains swept through Havana, causing extensive flooding across various parts of the Cuban capital. Streets were submerged, vehicles became immobile, and residents grew increasingly worried. In areas such as Playa and El Vedado, the scene was particularly dire. Water reached knee-high levels, garbage bins floated freely, vintage cars were partially underwater, and utility poles teetered on the brink of collapse.
Photos from Playa illustrate the vastness of the flooding, with water engulfing entire roadways and threatening to invade people's homes. Ricardo Barrio Hernández, a technician in Meteorological Observation, suggested on the Facebook page Vigilancia Tropical that similar weather events might occur in the coming hours.
While local authorities have yet to report significant structural damage, residents lament the usual issues: clogged sewers, neglected streets, and a conspicuous lack of institutional response. Frustration abounded on social media, with frequent complaints about the city's inadequate drainage system, the buildup of garbage on streets, and the poor maintenance of sewers.
Many have voiced that "the government can't even unclog drains anymore," while others sarcastically suggested building gondolas to navigate the city, likening it to a tropical Venice. "It's only going to get worse; the drains are full of trash," remarked one user, while another criticized, "the president is worried about Palestine, while Cuba is in a state of decay."
This situation poses a substantial risk, not only due to material damage but also because of the health hazards from the mix of rainwater and accumulated waste. Several images depict trash floating amid the water, adding a layer of unsanitariness to the urban chaos. Many locals reported water entering their homes and businesses, and some couldn't move their vehicles in time to prevent them from being submerged.
The sight of classic cars nearly covered by water underscores the city's lack of preparedness for weather events that are becoming increasingly common.
Havana Flooding Crisis: Key Questions Answered
What areas in Havana were most affected by the flooding?
The areas of Playa and El Vedado were particularly affected by the flooding, with knee-high waters and significant urban disruption.
What are residents in Havana saying about the drainage issues?
Residents are expressing frustration over the poor state of the drainage system, the accumulation of garbage, and the lack of maintenance, which exacerbate flooding issues.
What potential risks does the flooding pose to Havana?
Beyond material damage, the flooding poses health risks due to the mixture of rainwater with accumulated waste, which can lead to unsanitary conditions.