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A video from the independent media CubaNet showed La Calzada del Cerro in Havana flooded after the heavy rains this Friday in Havana.
"It is like this due to the rains, the collapse of the sewage system, and the amount of trash on the streets," reads the description of a video showing the water level almost at the height of the porticos that characterize that Havana street.
For neighbor Leonor Domínguez, it was, however, “just a normal downpour and not for long because I was close by,” which is why the flooding is mainly due to the “decay that exists throughout the city.”
Flooding has become a part of daily life for the people of Havana. On August 11th, heavy rains caused streets to flood, vehicles to be trapped, and homes to be inundated in several areas of the Cuban capital.
The downpour, accompanied by thunderstorms, caused severe flooding in low-lying and poorly drained areas, such as Vía Blanca, Vento-Lacret, and Avenida del Puerto, where even a bus got stranded despite the presence of firefighters.
One day later, the tragic death of a baby just five months old was reported during the heavy rains. The infant drowned after water forcefully surged into their home following the collapse of a wall.
The tragic event occurred precisely in the municipality of El Cerro, one of the areas most affected by the severe storm.
Frequently asked questions about flooding and infrastructure issues in Havana
Why are there so many floods in Havana?
The flooding in Havana is mainly due to the collapse of the sewage system and the accumulation of garbage in the streets. The stormwater system is outdated and cannot handle even moderate rainfall, which is exacerbated by the lack of maintenance and the buildup of waste that clogs the drains.
How does the inadequate rainwater system affect the residents of Havana?
The inadequate rainwater system in Havana causes flooding that inundates streets, traps vehicles, and enters homes. This increases the risk of collapses of weakened structures, endangering the lives of residents, especially in low-lying areas and old buildings. Citizens also face mobility and health issues due to the stagnant water.
What tragic incidents have occurred due to the rains in Havana?
Recently, a five-month-old baby drowned after a wall collapsed during a flood in the Cerro municipality. The heavy rains have also caused additional collapses, resulting in injuries and fatalities in various areas of the city. These tragic events highlight the vulnerability of the residents due to the poor condition of the infrastructure.
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