The heavy rains recorded on August 11 once again tested Havana's resilience against extreme weather events, leaving flooded streets, trapped vehicles, and inundated homes in various parts of the city.
According to reports from Cuban Meteorological Radars, a large system of storms and heavy rainfall affected much of western Cuba, with a particular impact on the capital.
The deluge, accompanied by thunderstorms, caused severe flooding in low-lying areas with poor drainage, such as Vía Blanca, Vento-Lacret, and Avenida del Puerto, where even a bus became stranded despite the presence of firefighters.
Videos shared by neighbors and independent media, such as El Toque, show the conditions in which the streets have turned into rivers, water is entering homes, and pedestrians are trying to navigate through hazardous currents.
Witnesses report that some drivers of jeeps and buses risked crossing flooded areas, endangering their lives and the lives of others.
In the midst of the emergency, versions began to circulate on social media about a tragic incident in the municipality of El Cerro, where a five-month-old baby reportedly died after their home flooded, following the collapse of a wall and the strong inflow of water.
According to those publications, the mother was gathering her belongings when the tragedy occurred, although the incident has not been confirmed by official sources or family members.
The rains on this Monday add to a series of events that have impacted Havana in 2025. In April, in just 40 minutes, a downpour submerged a large part of the city, with neighborhoods such as Centro Habana, Cerro, and areas near the Malecón severely affected.
In June, a storm flooded the streets of Vedado and once again highlighted the limitations of a drainage system that can barely withstand moderate rainfall.
Months earlier, in February, a tragedy shocked the city when a child died in Luyanó after being sucked into a drainage pit during a flood, leading to numerous complaints about open drains and manholes in the Cuban capital.
With a hurricane season that experts predict will be “very active”, with a high likelihood of tropical storms and intense rainfall events, the population of Havana is struggling with a deficient drainage system that is collapsing, leaving thousands in a vulnerable situation.
On social media, users are urging caution, advising to avoid crossing flooded areas and not to underestimate the danger.
Frequently Asked Questions about Flooding in Havana
What caused the recent floods in Havana?
The recent flooding in Havana was caused by heavy rains and thunderstorms, which particularly impacted the low-lying areas and regions with poor drainage in the city. The lack of an efficient drainage system and the accumulation of waste also contributed to the collapse of the drainage system.
What is the impact of these rains on the infrastructure of Havana?
Heavy rains have exposed the fragility of Havana's infrastructure, causing flooding that affects the mobility and safety of citizens. The sewage system, built over a century ago, does not meet the current needs of the population and contributes to the frequent flooding.
What measures are being taken to prevent future flooding in Havana?
Several initiatives have been announced to improve the drainage system, including international cooperation and investment in pumping equipment. However, citizens' criticisms point to the lack of maintenance and ineffective management of infrastructure, complicating the long-term solution to the problem.
What are the recommendations for residents of Havana during these floods?
Authorities recommend that the population of Havana take extra precautions, avoid traveling through flooded areas, and follow the guidelines of official agencies. It is crucial to stay informed through appropriate channels to prevent accidents and minimize risks.
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