21 Oct 2017 | 12:11 PM UTC
Cuba: Hurricane Irma recovery efforts ongoing
Significant hurricane damages remain in Cuba as of October 19, more than one month after Hurricane Irma made landfall on September 8
Event
Significant hurricane recovery efforts are still needed in several Cuban provinces after Hurricane Irma battered the country's northern coast from September 8-10, per the latest UN Country Team in Cuba report published on Thursday, October 19. Widespread damages to homes and other buildings were reported in the towns of Chambas, Bolivia, Morón, and Júcaro (Ciego de Ávila province); many people remain homeless and reside in temporary shelters in the most severely affected provinces, including Ciego de Ávila, Sancti Spíritus, and Villa Clara. Lingering damages to some 90 hospitals, 120 educational facilities, 2500 food storage and other logistics buildings, and the entire livestock sector are reported in the abovementioned provinces and municipalities, as well as in the city of Havana and Matanzas and Camaguey provinces. Provision of basic goods, food, and building materials are expected to remain aid priorities in the coming weeks, as recovery efforts slowly continue.
Context
Hurricane Irma left ten dead in the country and caused severe flooding in Havana, as well as the provinces of Matanzas, Camaguey, and Ciego de Ávila.
Advice
Individuals present in the affected areas in Cuba are advised to be prepared for food shortages (stock up on food and bottled water), and adhere to any advice issued by the local authorities.
