The intense rains recorded in Havana on Thursday have caused severe flooding in multiple areas of the Cuban capital, leaving streets submerged, vehicles trapped, and a growing concern among residents.
The image of disaster is repeated in areas of Playa and El Vedado. Water reaches people’s knees, there are floating trash containers, old cars partially submerged, and electrical poles at risk of collapsing.
Other photographs taken from the Playa municipality show the extent of the phenomenon, where the water has completely covered the roadway and threatens to enter the homes.
Ricardo Barrio Hernández, a meteorological observation technician, said on the Facebook page Vigilancia Tropical that there is a possibility of similar events in the coming hours.
Local authorities have not yet reported any significant structural damage, but residents are citing the same old issues: collapsed sewers, streets in disrepair, and an institutional response that is notably lacking.
Residents expressed their frustration on social media. Among the most common comments were complaints about the poor state of the drainage system in the city, the accumulation of garbage in the streets, and the lack of maintenance of the sewers.
Many agree that "the government can no longer even unclog drains," while others ironically suggest the fabrication of gondolas to navigate the city, as if it were a new tropical Venice.
“Things will only get worse, the sewers are filled with garbage,” comments an internet user, while another points out that “the president is worried about Palestine, while Cuba is in a state of decay.”
The situation poses a serious risk, not only due to material damage but also because of the health hazard caused by the mixing of rainwater with waste accumulated over several days. Several photos show garbage floating in the water, adding a component of unsanitary conditions to the urban chaos.
Several neighbors report that water entered their homes and businesses, and some were unable to move their vehicles in time to prevent them from getting submerged.
The image of vintage cars almost submerged in water highlights the city's lack of preparedness to face weather events that are no longer exceptional.
Frequently Asked Questions about Flooding in Havana
Why does Havana flood constantly?
Havana is constantly flooding due to a deficient and outdated sewage system, which cannot handle the water volume during heavy rains. Additionally, the accumulation of garbage blocks the drains, worsening the problem. This system was built for a population much smaller than the current one, which contributes to its inability to manage the current rainfall.
What risks do floods pose in Havana?
The floods in Havana pose significant material and health risks. Material damages include trapped vehicles, flooded streets, and water entering homes and businesses. In terms of health, the mixing of rainwater with waste and accumulated debris creates a considerable health risk, with the potential to spread diseases.
What measures are the authorities taking to improve the drainage system in Havana?
The authorities have acknowledged the deficiencies in the sewage system and international funding has been received for its improvement. However, the implementation of these improvements has been slow and has not effectively resolved the problem, exacerbated by a lack of maintenance and the clogging of drains with trash.
How does climate change affect flooding in Havana?
Climate change has intensified rainfall patterns in Havana, increasing the frequency and severity of flooding. The more intense and frequent rains exceed the capacity of the existing drainage system, resulting in a higher risk of flooding in urban areas.
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