Cuba Implements Measures Amid Severe Blackouts Following Power…

Cuba has instructed non-essential workers and students to remain home due to major blackouts caused by a failing electrical grid. With only six of 15 oil-fired plants operational and severe fuel shortages, the country is experiencing long outages, with some areas facing up to 20 hours of blackouts daily. The situation worsens existing issues related to food, fuel, and medicine shortages in the country.

Havana, Cuba, faced widespread blackouts as schools were closed, and non-essential workers were instructed to stay home due to a failing electrical grid. The government reported that only six of the 15 oil-fired power plants were operational, worsened by a severe fuel shortage preventing the activation of diesel generators that usually support the electricity supply. These developments represent the most significant outages since nationwide grid failures occurred late last year, which had previously incited protests among the population.

The crisis results from diminishing oil imports from Venezuela, Russia, and Mexico, leaving Cuba’s aging oil-powered plants in a critical state. The government announced on Thursday a suspension of non-essential work and teaching activities to address the crisis, while essential services were expected to continue. Reports from Havana indicated blackouts lasting six to ten hours this week, with rural areas experiencing up to 20 hours of outages each day.

The ongoing power shortages are exacerbating existing conditions in Cuba, where the population is already grappling with a lack of food, fuel, and medical supplies. Over one million Cubans have emigrated since the COVID-19 pandemic began, driven by increasing hardships. The Cuban government attributes its electrical challenges to the U.S. trade embargo and sanctions imposed by previous U.S. administrations.

Officials have stated that there may be a slight improvement in power supply over the weekend as fuel availability is expected to increase. However, skepticism remains about the long-term sustainability of Cuba’s energy situation, especially with external pressures affecting import capabilities.

Reporting by Dave Sherwood indicates that the electrical infrastructure crisis continues to significantly impact daily life in Cuba, presenting challenges to the government and anxiety among the populace as they await any real improvements in conditions.

Cuba’s recent decision to close schools and restrict non-essential work highlights the severe impact of blackouts resulting from a faltering electrical grid. The situation is exacerbated by fuel shortages and diminishing oil imports. The government’s response aims to manage the crisis, but ongoing challenges suggest that many residents will continue to face significant hardships. Effective long-term solutions will be necessary for recovery.

Original Source: www.usnews.com