Cuba is currently doubling efforts to protect its population and economic assets from the impending impact of Tropical Storm Rafael, which is expected to strike the western part of the island within the next 48 hours.
According to President Miguel Díaz-Canel, the President of the National Defense Council, the country is fully prepared to face the storm.
In a meeting held on Monday, the Head of State called for enhanced preventive measures in high-risk and remote areas that may become isolated. He emphasized the need for constant monitoring of dam and reservoir conditions, and instructed all management centers to be activated and reinforced.
He also ordered the preparation of alternative communication channels for the population, including the use of loudspeakers and direct communication with individuals.
The president also arranged for a comprehensive inventory of resources available in each region and mobilized emergency teams of electricians, water workers, and construction personnel to commence recovery efforts as soon as possible.
He urged caution along coastal areas to prevent sea intrusions and urged the harvesting of as much produce as possible, prior to the storm’s passage. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of increased tree trimming and drainage in urban and rural areas, as well as intensified waste collection.
During the meeting, governors of provinces in the cyclone alert phase discussed evacuation plans, sewer maintenance, preparations for evacuation centers, medical teams, measures to protect fishermen, and other measures.
Governor Alis Azahar, from Guantanámo, reported on preparations for the rain that affected the eastern province following the passage of Hurricane Oscar. She explained that over 40,000 people were evacuated, with all families provided with shelter in the municipality of San Antonio del Sur.
