A video posted on social media shows the moment when a large fire on Wednesday consumes several homes on a street in the city of Manzanillo, in the province of Granma.
The shocking images were shared on Facebook by the user Marlene Herrera, who wrote alongside the video: “The minutes felt like hours. Until the firefighters arrived. Lord, put your hand over and protect the people.”
The video shows flames rising from the roof of one of the houses while a visibly distressed crowd watches the fire spread, helpless to intervene. In the distance, firefighters can also be seen attempting to extinguish the blaze.
The fire occurred on Villuendas Street, between San Silvestre and Caridad, with no reports of loss of human life or injuries, according to the initial reports released about the incident.
However, local media such as Radio Granma reported that at least three homes were affected by the fire.
The official journalist José Ortiz Benet stated on Facebook that the origin of the fire is still unknown, but he confirmed that there were no loss of human lives, although there was material damage.
It also highlighted the involvement of residents in the firefighting efforts alongside the firefighters.
The journalist Roberto Mesa Matos, from Manzanillo, also emphasized on Facebook that the local Fire Command (CB) actively participated in extinguishing the fire in a wooden house, aiming to prevent the flames from spreading to other nearby properties.
Additionally, he emphasized that sources from the CB confirmed that the causes of the fire are still unknown, which has caused significant alarm in the community.
On social media, some users suggest that the use of makeshift cooking methods—such as coal and firewood—due to the electricity shortage in that eastern region of Cuba may have been a triggering factor for the fire, although this version has not been officially confirmed.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Fire in Manzanillo and the Energy Crisis in Cuba
What happened in the recent fire in Manzanillo?
A large fire affected several homes in Manzanillo, Granma, with no reported loss of human life. The flames engulfed at least three houses, and the community and firefighters worked together to control the blaze. The causes of the fire have not yet been confirmed.
What could be the cause of the fire in Manzanillo?
Although the authorities have not confirmed the cause, it is suggested that the use of makeshift cooking methods, such as charcoal and firewood, may have triggered the fire. The energy crisis in Cuba has led many families to resort to these methods, increasing the risk of household fires.
How is the energy crisis affecting the residents of Manzanillo and other areas of Cuba?
The energy crisis in Cuba has caused extended blackouts, forcing residents of Manzanillo and other regions to cook using alternative methods such as firewood and charcoal, which increases the risk of fires. This situation has led to discontent and protests among the population.
How has the community and the firefighters responded to the fire in Manzanillo?
The community of Manzanillo joined the firefighters in efforts to extinguish the fire. The residents actively collaborated to control the flames and prevent them from spreading to more homes, demonstrating solidarity and bravery in the face of the emergency.
What measures are being taken to prevent future fires in Cuba?
So far, no specific measures have been reported by the Cuban government to prevent future fires. The situation highlights an urgent need to improve fire prevention and response measures, especially due to aging infrastructure and lack of maintenance.
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