The heavy rains hitting eastern Cuba this Saturday caused a landslide in the municipality of Yateras, Guantánamo.
“In the Bardor of Yateras, La Carolina Popular Council, a landslide occurred that prompted an immediate response from the authorities,” said the state journalist Miguel Reyes.
The landslide caused trees to fall, blocking the road.
"Officials from the Government, members of the National Revolutionary Police, and members of the Red Cross arrived at the location, working together to assess the situation and ensure the safety of the residents and vehicle traffic," he added.
The official source did not specify any damage or injuries.
Five rescued after flooding in Santiago de Cuba.
Five people were rescued tafter the overflow of the Sígua River in the town of the same name in Santiago de Cuba due to the heavy rains affecting eastern Cuba.
The information was disclosed by Aris Arias Batalla, Provincial Chief of Operations and Aquatic Safety and Rescue in the province
People were trapped on the roofs of facilities belonging to the Baconao Fantasy Park, on the outskirts of the main city, it was specified.
First, two people were rescued by lifeguards from the Cuban Red Cross; the others were rescued an hour later in a more distant location.
"To reach that locality, one must cross several dangerous river passages, and all of them are flooded due to rising waters," the official warned.
Official profiles also shared images of regime authorities assessing the situation on the ground.
"The First Secretary of the PCC Beatriz Jhonson Urrutia arrived in the town of Sigua in Baconao, along with the MININT and the FAR, to assist those cut off from communication due to the heavy rains that have occurred in this eastern area over the past few hours," wrote the official profile Frank Camilo D Cuba on Facebook.
“Right next to the town, the highest authorities of the province are here to preserve what is most important: the lives of the people,” he added.
Rain in the East
The Institute of Meteorology of Cuba (INSMET) warned this Saturday about the persistence of heavy and intense rains in the eastern region of the country, which will extend towards the center throughout the afternoon.
Precipitation is associated with a vast area of low pressure linked to an active tropical wave, which has caused abundant cloud cover, showers, and thunderstorms not only in eastern Cuba but also over the Bahamas, Hispaniola, Jamaica, and the northern central Caribbean Sea, according to the special weather note.
The interaction of this system with local factors and the complex topography of eastern Cuba has resulted in significant rainfall accumulations.
According to INSMET, in the last 24 hours, 22 stations recorded more than 80 mm of rain, 14 of which exceeded 100 mm, and in four locations in Guantánamo, totals surpassed 200 mm.
The official report indicates that, regardless of the evolution of the atmospheric system, instability will continue to prevail in the region. For this reason, numerous showers and thunderstorms are expected from Camagüey to Guantánamo, gradually extending to the central part of the country during the afternoon.
Rainfall could be heavy and intense in some areas, particularly in mountainous regions and areas with poor drainage, so it is advisable to stay updated with official forecasts and take preventive measures in vulnerable locations.
INSMET will continue to monitor the evolution of the phenomenon and will issue new updates if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions about Rainfall in Eastern Cuba
What caused the landslide in Yateras, Guantánamo?
The landslide in Yateras, Guantánamo, was caused by the heavy rains that are affecting the eastern region of Cuba. These rains are associated with a tropical wave that has resulted in significant rainfall accumulations, particularly in mountainous areas and regions with poor drainage.
How is the situation in Santiago de Cuba being managed after the overflow of the Sígua River?
The authorities have rescued five people who were trapped following the overflow of the Sígua River. This event, also caused by heavy rains, has mobilized the Red Cross and rescue personnel to ensure the safety of those affected and assess the damages in the area.
What preventive measures have been taken in Guantánamo in response to the heavy rains?
The authorities in Guantánamo have implemented protection plans to address the intense rains, including the safeguarding of individuals in vulnerable areas, the protection of medical equipment and basic resources, and the reinforcement of surveillance in rivers and dams. The population has been alerted to stay informed and avoid rumors.
What is the current weather situation in Eastern Cuba?
The Meteorological Institute of Cuba has warned about the persistence of heavy and intense rains in the eastern region, which are spreading toward the central part of the country. These conditions are the result of an active tropical wave and a low-pressure area that have generated significant rainfall accumulations in the area.
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