A fresh wave of sargassum has inundated the Jaruco River in Mayabeque Province, as highlighted by images shared by the magazine Juventud Técnica on their Facebook page.
"Sargassum invasion in the Jaruco River in Mayabeque Province," the publication stated, accompanying several photographs that depict a thick layer of algae covering the river's surface and gathering around boats docked along its banks.
Captured by M. Sc. Leslie Moleiro León, the images illustrate the scale of this phenomenon in an area where fishing vessels converge with riverside communities.
This occurrence is not an isolated event. Back in October 2025, the Energás Jaruco plant was rendered non-operational, with the Cuban Electric Union (UNE) blaming the presence of sargassum in the intake channel of one of its pumps. This incident was cited among the peculiar explanations often given by authorities for disruptions in the National Electrical System, alongside thunderstorms, electrical discharges, or local storms.
Beyond these explanations, the incident exposed the vulnerability of Cuba's energy facilities and the lack of basic maintenance and infrastructure to prevent foreseeable issues in a coastal environment. The recurrence of this issue in the same municipality underscores the perception of neglect and a lack of effective environmental management.
In other Caribbean nations, the surge in sargassum has led to disruptions in ecosystems and coastal services, yet it has also spurred the development of control and cleanup programs. In Cuba, however, reports on this issue are sporadic, and there is little information on public measures for its monitoring or management.
Up to now, the authorities have not provided any details about this latest sargassum invasion in the Jaruco River, a location once again facing an environmental challenge that blends lack of foresight with the degradation of vital infrastructure.
Impacts of Sargassum on the Jaruco River
What has been the impact of sargassum on the Jaruco River?
The sargassum invasion has covered the river's surface and disrupted local fishing activities by accumulating around docked boats.
How have other Caribbean countries responded to sargassum invasions?
Other Caribbean countries have experienced similar issues but have developed control and cleanup programs to manage the problem effectively.
Why are sargassum invasions a recurring issue in the Jaruco River?
The recurring nature of sargassum invasions highlights the lack of maintenance and infrastructure to prevent such environmental impacts.