A man named Pablo López Infante, who was trapped by the surging waters of the Cauto River in Granma province, was successfully rescued alive on Saturday, a family member confirmed through social media posts.
The incident took place in one of the areas hardest hit by Hurricane Melissa, which has left numerous communities isolated and forced thousands to evacuate in eastern Cuba.
"He's been rescued, he's fine, thank God," a relieved relative stated after enduring hours of uncertainty amid the river's overflow, which continues to pose a threat to the areas around Río Cauto and Guamo.
Details of the rescue operation remain unclear. His daughter had taken to social media, revealing that her father, an operator, became stranded while on duty during the river's rise.
In a Facebook video, the young woman mentioned that nearly 72 hours had passed without any definitive response from authorities regarding López Infante's whereabouts or condition.
The family, originally from Granma, explained that their father went to "fulfill his work duties" and ended up isolated at the Miradero power substation near the Cauto River.
Hurricane Melissa has severely affected eastern Cuba, causing the Cauto River to overflow and isolating several rural communities. In the municipality of Río Cauto, the intense rains have flooded homes, cut off roads, and led to the evacuation of hundreds to shelter centers.
Local media, such as CMKX Radio Bayamo, reported that the situation remains critical in areas like Guamo and Los Cayos, where rescue operations and humanitarian aid distribution are ongoing.
Authorities remain on high alert for potential new floods due to the persistent rainfall in the region.
Nearly 3,000 people were evacuated overnight as the river's waters continued to rise.
Key Information on the Cauto River Rescue
Who is Pablo López Infante?
Pablo López Infante is a man who was trapped by the floods of the Cauto River in Granma province, and was rescued alive after several days.
What caused the Cauto River to overflow?
The overflow of the Cauto River was caused by heavy rains from Hurricane Melissa, which severely impacted eastern Cuba.
How many people were evacuated due to the flooding?
Nearly 3,000 people were evacuated as a precautionary measure against the rising waters of the Cauto River.