Cuba Started Restoring Power Supply After Ian Damaged Electric Grids

The government of Cuba has already started repairing the damaged power grid after Hurricane Ian hit.

Hurricane Ian unleashed heavy rains causing heavy floodings in Western Cuba at Category 3 level, with a record of 125 mph winds.

Two people were recorded dead, and infrastructures and homes received heavy damage from Hurricane Ian.

According to CNN, Hurricane Ian made landfall southwest of La Coloma in the Pinar del Rio.

Morever, the hurricane caused the western region of Cuba of major flooding and landslides. Local authorities immediately ordered for evacuation of affected residents in the area.

Power Restoration

(Photo by YAMIL LAGE/AFP via Getty Images)

According to AccuWeather, the electric company, Union Electrica, began restoring the power in the western part of the grid, which received the most damage from the Hurricane.

The report added that the Ministry of Mines and Energy in Cuba explained the solution to affected power grids requires a lot of precision.

In a news report in the Havana Times, the state electric company explained that the National Electric System was affected by complicated, complex weather conditions.

On the other hand, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) advisory reported that Hurricane Ian could unleash six to 10 inches of rainfall.

The NHC added that the heavy rains could result in flash floods and landslides in Cuba.

Also, a storm surge was in effect in the country, causing the rise of seawater levels up to nine to 14 feet on the coast of western Cuba.

Power outage safety

Cuba has been heavily impacted by the power blackouts after Hurricane Ian destroyed and damaged significant power lines in the country.

As residents wait for the power to return, here are some reminders from American Red Cross for the Power Outage Safety.

Also Read: Tropical Storm Ian May Bring Heavy Rains and Flooding to Cuba and Florida

American Red Cross emphasized that the power outage can affect communication lines, transportation, water supply, and many essential services.

If your family members have equipment requiring electrical power, immediately seek help from the local authorities, health clinics, or nearest hospitals.
Turn on your generators if needed and efficiently save for important uses.
Check your phones or radios for updated weather alerts or announcements. It is important to always keep a power bank with you in cases of emergency like this.
Inform your family that you are safe after the Hurricane or storm, and seek help if needed.
As power lines are damaged, it is best to keep away from them, especially in flooded areas.
Turn off the power breaker in your home. Once the power returns, damaged equipment could cause electrical shock. It is best to unplug and seek professional electricians.
Evacuate or go to your family's house. Shelters provide cooling fans and mobile charging spots for communication lines. However, if the nearest family has electricity access, inform them of your situation.
Lock your house. If you decide to leave or stay at home, ensure that your doors are meticulously locked.