As Hurricane Oscar barrels towards Cuba, the island nation is already experiencing widespread blackouts, leaving millions of residents without electricity. The crisis unfolded when the country’s largest power plant, the Antonio Guiteras facility in Matanzas, failed, cutting off power for over 10 million people. Despite initial restoration efforts, the grid collapsed again, creating an urgent situation as the Category 1 hurricane, with winds of up to 85 mph, approaches the eastern region of the island.

The hurricane is expected to make landfall near Guantanamo or Holguin, with predictions of flash floods and mudslides. The impact of the storm is likely to exacerbate the ongoing power crisis, as infrastructure and energy systems across the nation struggle to cope with the combined pressures of natural disasters and long-standing economic challenges. For many Cuban citizens, the extended blackout has led to difficulties in securing basic necessities like food and water, as power-dependent services like refrigeration and water pumps remain offline.

The government has scrambled to address the crisis, with President Miguel Diaz-Canel prioritizing recovery efforts. In a recent address, he highlighted the efforts of local authorities in eastern Cuba, stating they are working tirelessly to protect citizens and critical resources ahead of the hurricane’s arrival. Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez echoed these sentiments, attributing the deteriorating situation to the decades-long US embargo, which he claims has restricted access to essential equipment and supplies necessary for maintaining the national power grid. He argued that lifting the embargo would alleviate the crisis and prevent future blackouts.

Widespread power outages and Hurricane Oscar test Cuba’s resilience

Local citizens are increasingly voicing their frustrations online, with many sharing their struggles to maintain daily life amidst the electricity shortage. Reports indicate that families have resorted to using firewood for cooking as their food supplies spoil due to a lack of refrigeration. Additionally, the closure of schools and businesses has led to a complete standstill, with the government urging non-essential workers to stay home to conserve the remaining electricity supply.

Cuban officials have highlighted the fragile state of the country’s energy infrastructure. Prime Minister Manuel Marrero recently addressed the public, attributing the power failures to fuel shortages, rising energy demands, and aging infrastructure. Marrero’s statement mirrors previous warnings from energy experts who have long cautioned about the vulnerabilities in Cuba’s energy systems, particularly as they rely heavily on outdated power plants and insufficient fuel imports.

Alfredo López Valdés, head of the National Electric Union (UNE), emphasized the scale of the crisis, noting that fuel supply disruptions from Venezuela and the inability to access new resources have severely hampered recovery efforts. Experts have pointed out that the energy shortage could escalate if the hurricane causes further damage to the already strained grid, highlighting the potential for prolonged outages that could further destabilize the nation.

In past years, similar blackouts have triggered protests across the island. In July 2021, thousands took to the streets, demonstrating against long power outages and poor living conditions. Now, as another major blackout unfolds, concerns grow over potential unrest. Social media has become a platform for citizens to express their anger and frustration, with some users criticizing the government’s handling of the crisis.

Energy analysts underscore that unless significant changes are made, including the overhaul of Cuba’s energy policies and systems, the country will continue to face similar crises. Without access to critical parts and international support, restoring the grid to full capacity will remain a challenge. As Hurricane Oscar nears, Cuba’s energy infrastructure is pushed to its limits, and the government’s ability to manage the aftermath will be closely watched.

Expert opinion: Aging infrastructure and embargo worsen Cuba’s energy crisis

Energy experts emphasize the dire state of Cuba’s power grid, pointing out that its reliance on outdated technology and dwindling fuel supplies leaves it ill-prepared to handle emergencies like Hurricane Oscar. The US embargo further compounds the issue by restricting access to essential parts and support, making quick restoration efforts nearly impossible. Analysts argue that a structural overhaul and international assistance are crucial to stabilizing the energy sector in Cuba.

  Antonio Guiteras, Bruno Rodríguez, Cuba, Guantanamo, Holguin, Hurricane Oscar, Manuel Marrero, Matanzas, Miguel Diaz-Canel, National Electric Union