Residents of areas such as Alquízar, Güira de Melena, and other parts of Artemisa have taken to social media to share their terrifying experiences and the extent of the destruction caused by Hurricane Rafael, highlighting the threat to their homes and safety. The videos reveal how easily the powerful winds tear off zinc and fiber cement panels, which then dangerously soar over the buildings. Clearly shaken, locals capture these scenes on camera while seeking shelter within their homes, fearing that one of these panels might crash into their houses or injure them.
In Cuba, a nation frequently battered by hurricanes and cyclones, the roofs of homes pose a continuous challenge for the government. The situation worsens annually due to issues in the supply and replacement of construction materials like tiles, which are crucial for repairing damage after such events. The chronic shortage of resources and logistical hurdles in the distribution of building materials often delay repair work, leaving many families vulnerable to further damage.
This issue has been addressed multiple times by the state-controlled media. In 2018, an opinion piece in the Granma newspaper featured an interview with an engineer and researcher, who argued that using zinc roofs should not automatically be seen as a vulnerability. However, the reality on the ground tells a different story. "Many people believe zinc roofs are fragile and will always be blown away in a hurricane, but that's not true. A house with a zinc or fiber cement roof, like those we build in Cuba, if properly secured and fastened, is viable and resilient," affirmed Dr. Candebat Sánchez, a Doctor of Science.
As Hurricane Rafael continues its path across western Cuba, the situation in Artemisa underscores the urgent need for more durable construction materials and better preparation to withstand the impact of these meteorological events on the island, which has barely recovered from Hurricane Oscar’s passage through eastern Cuba on October 20.
Challenges in Recovery Efforts
Hurricane Oscar left a significant trail of destruction in Guantánamo Province, affecting more than 11,000 homes, according to official reports. During a meeting in Baracoa, the Provincial Defense Council reported 257 total collapses, 360 partial collapses, and 9,198 houses that lost part of their roofs. In addition to the damage to homes, state facilities and road infrastructure also suffered, complicating recovery efforts in the area.
To assist affected families, authorities have set up temporary shelters in Baracoa, one of the hardest-hit municipalities. These shelters, donated by the World Food Programme (WFP), are being established in areas with limited infrastructure, with local social workers helping in their setup. However, this measure highlights the Cuban government's limitations in providing permanent and sustainable solutions for those who have lost everything.
Alongside local efforts, several international organizations have contributed humanitarian aid. Among them, the WFP has sent 200 tunnel tents for the homeless, along with supplies for the Defense Council and Cuban government. This humanitarian aid has become a temporary relief for many families who continue to face uncertainty and the challenges of long-term recovery amid scarce resources and adverse weather conditions in Guantánamo.