07 Jun 2022 | 03:17 PM UTC
Cuba: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing in parts of Matanzas Province as of June 7
Thousands evacuated due to flooding in parts of Matanzas Province, Cuba, as of June 7; further rainfall forecast in the coming days.
Event
More than 2,300 people have been evacuated due to ongoing flooding across parts of Matanzas Province in western Cuba as of June 7. The affected municipalities include Matri and Colon. Heavy rainfall in the region over recent days has led to rising river levels and further rainfall is forecast. The Meteorological Institute of the Republic of Cuba (INSMET) has forecast showers and thunderstorms across western and central parts of the country June 7, with further isolated showers expected across much of the country through at least June 11.
Many parts of Cuba are still recovering after the remnants of Hurricane Agatha, referred to as Potential Tropical Cyclone One, brought heavy rainfall, which triggered severe flooding to many parts of the country June 2-3. Affected provinces included Havana, Mantanzas, Pinar del Rio, Artemisa, Sancti Spiritus, and the island municipality of Isla de la Juventud. Authorities reported two fatalities in Havana Province and one fatality and one missing person in Pinar del Rio Province due to the flooding. At least sixty homes were damaged, over four thousand people displaced, and thousands left without power following the passing of the storm system. Some areas received as much as 30 cm (12 inches) of rainfall June 2-3, leaving the water table saturated and meaning additional rainfall in recent days has triggered further flooding.
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.
