Loud explosions were heard on Thursday night in Havana, according to numerous reports on social media.
Starting at 10:16 PM, explosions began to be heard, felt in municipalities such as Old Havana, Centro Habana, Cerro, Diez de Octubre, San Miguel del Padrón, Playa, and Marianao.
"Does anyone know why those cannon shots can be heard in Old Havana?" asked user Emanuel Duran in the Facebook group "MLC Stores Havana. What's up?"
"Strong explosions are being heard in Havana. Does anyone know what it is?" asked Jorge de Mello on his wall.
"Did the Americans arrive? I hope they bring food," joked human rights activist Adelth Bonne Gamboa, who shared a video in which the sounds of the explosions can be clearly heard.
According to comments on the posts, these are the rehearsals for the cannon fire on December 31st to celebrate the triumph of the revolution. Typically, at midnight on that day, there is a military ceremony during which 21 cannon salutes are fired from the San Carlos de La Cabaña fortress.
A note published in the weekly magazine Tribuna reported on Thursday that there would be a rehearsal for the ceremony that night, and detonations would also be heard.
However, the virtually nonexistent access to information in official media due to extensive blackouts keeps the population unaware of events like this, and understandably, people are scared and worried.
Frequently Asked Questions about the explosions and the current situation in Havana
What caused the explosions heard in Havana on Thursday night?
The explosions in Havana were caused by the practice runs for the cannon fire on December 31 to celebrate the triumph of the revolution. This military ceremony takes place every year and involves firing 21 artillery salutes from the fortress of San Carlos de La Cabaña.
Why is the Cuban population concerned about these explosions?
The concern among the Cuban population stems from the virtually nonexistent access to information through official media due to power outages, which keeps many people unaware of current events. This creates fear and uncertainty during unusual occurrences like explosions.
How has the Cuban people reacted to the government's celebrations amid the crisis?
The Cuban people have reacted with outrage to the government's celebrations. The population criticizes that in the midst of a severe energy and economic crisis, there is nothing to celebrate, while the government continues with the festivities of the Triumph of the Revolution, which are seen as disconnected from the reality of the people.
What problems is the Cuban population currently facing due to the energy crisis?
The energy crisis has severely impacted the Cuban population, resulting in prolonged blackouts, shortages of food and medicine, and a collapsed healthcare system. This has led to an increase in protests and the banging of pots and pans in various areas of Havana and other cities.
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