Cuba: Havana and Varadero airports reopen Sep. 12 /update 4

Event

Authorities reported on Tuesday, September 12, that Havana's José Martí International Airport (HAV) and Varadero's Juan Gualberto Gómez Airport (VRA) had reopened following temporary closures during Hurricane Irma.

Cuba sustained heavy damage from winds, flooding, and storm surge; authorities are currently assessing the extent of the damage. Reports say at least ten people died during the storm and its aftermath. Havana and central and western Cuba continue to face power outages and potable water shortages; the government is currently prioritizing addressing these infrastructural issues, although it is unclear when services will be fully restored.

Context

Hurricane Irma was downgraded to a Post-Tropical Storm early on September 12, and is currently located over northeast Alabama. At least 36 people were killed by the storm in the Caribbean. Irma was the first Category 5 hurricane to make landfall in Cuba since 1932.

Advice

Individuals present in Cuba are advised to keep abreast of weather alerts, confirm travel reservations, avoid coastal and mountainous areas (risk of flooding and landslides), and adhere to all advice issued by the local authorities.

Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult. Finally, because floodwater may also contain wastewater or chemical products, wear boots and try to avoid any contact with the water. All items having come into contact with the water should be washed and disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.