Crisis in Cuban Meteorology: Low Salaries and Exodus Impact a Key Sector

In a country exposed each year to the real threat of hurricanes, tropical storms, and extreme droughts, the crisis of the Cuban meteorological system is not only concerning but potentially devastating.

The lack of professionals, technology, and resources jeopardizes the ability to anticipate and respond to phenomena that directly impact the lives, economy, and security of millions of people on the island.

The alert was publicly issued this Tuesday by the Cuban meteorologist Raydel Ruisánchez, who stated on his Facebook profile that the island's meteorological system is in crisis due to low salaries and the exodus of specialists, a problem that affects this sector just like the rest of society.

"While in other parts of the world meteorologists enjoy reasonable salary potential, in Cuba they face the harsh reality of low wages, just like other vital sectors such as health and education," he wrote.

According to the specialist, this situation has caused a steady outflow of professionals to other countries in search of better opportunities.

The precariousness of the sector jeopardizes the system's operability, precisely when the need for accurate and timely information is more critical than ever, in a context of increasing climate instability.

Ruisánchez recalled that, after the disaster caused by Hurricane Flora in October 1963, the then-ruler Fidel Castro understood the strategic importance of a robust meteorological system.

That event, the second deadliest in the modern history of the country, marked a turning point in the scientific management of natural disasters.

However, today "everything that has been achieved is crumbling," lamented the expert, referring not only to the loss of qualified personnel but also to technological shortcomings, frequent power outages, and poor connectivity that hinder access to up-to-date real-time data.

In the meteorologist's opinion, Cuba is not prepared to face the challenges of climate change unless more resources and political will are allocated to strengthen the sector.

"Without adequate support and resources, it becomes almost impossible to develop quality science and ensure the safety of our society in the face of climatic adversities," he warned.

The meteorologist's alert becomes more concerning when international organizations have warned that the current hurricane season will be especially active.

However, this situation is not only experienced by the meteorology sector. The official newspaper Invasor recently warned that only two eleven-grade students showed up for the aptitude exam to pursue a career in Journalism at the Manuel Ascunce Domenech headquarters, affiliated with the University of Ciego de Ávila Máximo Gómez Báez (UNICA).

This situation highlights a reality: in Cuba, young people are reluctant to pursue this career due to military service, entry barriers, economic hardship, and the loss of prestige, which distances them from the profession.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Weather System Crisis in Cuba