The community of San Antonio del Sur was hit hard when a cyclone swept through the area, leading to a storm surge that reached over five feet. Those living in the region recount the harrowing hours of fear and anxiety as they struggled to salvage what little they could from their flooded homes.
In a viral TikTok video by "El Pibe Cubano," residents describe their moments of despair. "The water was up to our necks," a local recalls, describing how quickly it rose and forced them to seek higher ground. "We had to place three children on top of a cabinet to keep them safe," he added, detailing the frantic attempts to protect the youngest among them.
Another resident, her voice shaky with emotion, shared the heartache of watching her belongings get swept away. "I lost everything. I didn't even have time to save the mattresses," she remarked, gesturing to the remnants of her home. "The sea came in so fast, there was no time to react. By the time we realized, it was already inside the house."
"The hardest part was hearing the children cry," said a father. "They didn't understand what was happening; they just knew water was everywhere, soaking everything. We didn't know if we'd make it out." A mother described how she clung to her children, trying to calm them as the water rose. "I told them everything would be okay, but inside, I was terrified," she admitted. "I've never seen anything like it. The water took all our memories, everything we had worked so hard for."
Another neighbor recounted his efforts to save whatever he could: "We placed the furniture on tables, but it was useless. Everything was submerged. My important papers, clothes, even food—all ruined. I don't know what we'll do now."
Community Spirit Amidst Chaos
Amid the chaos, stories of community solidarity emerged. "We helped each other; some neighbors lent a hand to get the kids out before the water got higher," a young man commented. "Even in such dire times, people didn't hesitate to assist, despite facing the same predicament."
Since October 20, 2024, Hurricane Oscar has left a path of destruction in San Antonio del Sur, Guantánamo. The severe weather event unleashed torrential rains that led to significant flooding, with sudden river rises and overflows that caught many off guard. Numerous families found themselves trapped in their homes as the water rapidly increased, forcing them to seek refuge on rooftops. In some instances, water levels reached the ceilings, and residents had to escape through narrow openings or seek shelter with nearby neighbors. The plight of one Cuban family highlights the distress experienced during these hours.
Power Outage Worsens Crisis
The situation was exacerbated by a widespread power outage that cut electricity to much of the region days before the hurricane's arrival. This blackout prevented many families from receiving weather updates and emergency alerts in time, increasing their vulnerability to the rising waters. Without access to communication, inhabitants were isolated and unable to coordinate evacuations effectively. Rumors of a dam breach sparked panic among residents, who, lacking clear official information, took desperate measures to protect themselves, fleeing their homes and rushing to higher ground.
The response from authorities, including evacuation efforts, was deemed delayed and inadequate by many affected. Despite government statements prioritizing recovery efforts in Guantánamo, local communities criticized the lack of preparation and minimal support provided during the most critical moments of the crisis. Rescue operations were hampered by challenging conditions and poor communication, while families struggled to cope with the loss of their possessions and uncertainty about the whereabouts of loved ones.