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More than 66,000 people were evacuated from Guantanamo in eastern Cuba before heavy rains threatened to pour down on the region, which was previously heavily affected by Hurricane Oscar, local television reported Monday.
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They were evacuated from seven of 10 municipalities in the province of Guantanamo (about a thousand kilometers southeast of Havana), where Hurricane Oscar caused historic flooding and left eight dead two weeks ago, according to the same source.
The Cuban Meteorological Institute warned that “showers, rain and thunder will reach the east” of the country. He added that an area of low pressure in southern Jamaica is also being monitored.
“We are constantly monitoring the weather in Cuba and the possible development,” Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel wrote on the X platform.
Hurricane Oscar hit Cuba on October 20 before weakening to a tropical storm.
Title: Understanding the Impact of Hurricane Oscar and Evacuations in Eastern Cuba: An Interview with Meteorological Expert Dr. Elena Torres
Introduction:
As Hurricane Oscar continues to affect parts of Cuba, more than 66,000 residents were evacuated from the province of Guantanamo due to impending heavy rains. With insights from Dr. Elena Torres, a meteorological expert, we delve into the implications of recent weather patterns, disaster preparedness, and the importance of weather monitoring.
Q: Thank you for joining us, Dr. Torres. Can you provide an overview of the impact Hurricane Oscar had on Cuba and the evacuation of over 66,000 residents?
Dr. Torres: Absolutely, thank you for having me. Hurricane Oscar struck Cuba on October 20, bringing with it historic flooding that tragically resulted in eight fatalities. The impact on the province of Guantanamo was significant, prompting the evacuation of residents from seven out of ten municipalities. This mass evacuation before the storms expected to follow emphasizes the urgency of addressing immediate threats in areas already vulnerable to flooding.
Q: What makes Guantanamo particularly susceptible to flooding and storms?
Dr. Torres: Guantanamo’s geographic position makes it vulnerable to severe weather events. Located in the southeastern region of Cuba, it faces the Caribbean Sea directly, which can lead to devastating storm surges. Additionally, previous infrastructure damage from storms has reduced its resilience to handle heavy rainfall and flooding, exacerbating the risks during events like Hurricane Oscar.
Q: The Cuban Meteorological Institute has issued warnings regarding impending showers and thunderstorms. What does this mean for the region moving forward?
Dr. Torres: These warnings indicate that the region should prepare for additional flooding and potential landslides, particularly in areas recovering from Hurricane Oscar. The monitoring of low-pressure areas, like the one in southern Jamaica, is crucial as they can develop into storms that may affect Cuba. It’s critical for residents to stay informed about the weather and adhere to evacuation orders when issued.
Q: What practical advice can you offer to those living in hurricane-prone areas, particularly in light of these recent events?
Dr. Torres: Preparation is essential. Residents should have an emergency plan that includes evacuation routes and a kit with essential supplies, including food, water, and medication. It’s also important to have a communication plan with family and friends to stay connected during evacuations. Additionally, staying updated through reliable sources, such as the Cuban Meteorological Institute or local news, can help individuals make informed decisions.
Q: As we continue to witness climate change, how might we expect storm patterns and evacuations to evolve in regions like Cuba?
Dr. Torres: Climate change is likely to lead to more frequent and severe weather events, including hurricanes and heavy rainfall. This will require countries like Cuba to enhance their disaster preparedness measures, invest in resilient infrastructure, and increase public awareness about the potential risks involved. Improved forecasting technology and procedures will also be vital in managing evacuations effectively in the future.
Conclusion:
Thank you, Dr. Torres, for providing us with your valuable insights on the ongoing situation in Cuba following Hurricane Oscar. It’s clear that understanding weather patterns and implementing strong disaster preparedness strategies is crucial for safeguarding vulnerable populations.
Keywords: Hurricane Oscar, Cuba, Guantanamo evacuation, meteorology, disaster preparedness, flooding, climate change.