12 Jun 2023 | 02:25 PM UTC
Cuba: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across eastern regions as of June 12
Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across parts of eastern Cuba as of June 12. Evacuations ongoing; casualties and damage reported.
Event
Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing across parts of eastern Cuba as of June 12. Heavy rainfall over the affected area since June 8 has caused river levels to rise and triggered widespread flooding across parts of Granma, Las Tunas, Santiago de Cuba, and Camaguey provinces. Authorities have reported at least one fatality due to the flooding in Granma Province and more than 7,000 people have been evacuated. Many roads and bridges have been made impassable by the floodwaters, around 10,000 houses have been damaged, and 65 more have collapsed across the affected area.
The Meteorological Institute of the Republic of Cuba (INSMET) has forecast further isolated downpours across eastern regions through at least June 15. Additional downpours could trigger further flooding in affected areas, as well as hamper ongoing recovery efforts.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
