The blaze at the Ñico López Refinery in Havana is reportedly under control, as announced by Cuba's Ministry of Energy and Mines (MINEM) and other official sources on Friday. This follows citizen reports of a black smoke column visible from various locations in the capital.
"The fire that broke out this afternoon in one of the warehouses at the Ñico López Refinery is now under control. The causes are under investigation," stated the MINEM's communiqué.
Initial alerts about the incident surfaced on social media from the Regla municipality, where residents reported thick smoke in the area of the Havana Bay. They pointed to the refinery as the potential epicenter and noted that firefighter units were heading to the scene.
At that initial stage, there was no official confirmation from CUPET or other authorities about the origin of the smoke, the causes of the event, or the extent of potential damages.
Up to the latest update cited, no further public details about the incident have been provided.
Images shared on social networks suggest the fire occurred near the refinery's tanks, raising alarm among Havana locals.
Ongoing Concerns Over Industrial Safety in Cuba
The recent fire at the Ñico López Refinery in Havana reignites discussions on industrial safety within Cuba's energy sector.
Although the Ministry of Energy and Mines authorities reported that the fire was controlled without human casualties, this incident is part of a pattern of similar occurrences in recent years at the nation's strategic facilities.
In May 2022, a "incipient fire" affected a warehouse at the Guaicanamar Convention Center, located near the Ñico López Refinery in Havana.
At that time, the swift response of the Fire Department prevented the flames from spreading, and the blaze was extinguished without injuries.
Nevertheless, the incident sparked concern among local residents, who recalled the proximity of fuel depots and other high-risk structures.
These precedents illustrate the repeated incidents at Cuban energy infrastructures, characterized by technical deterioration, lack of maintenance, and resource shortages.
The recurrence of these events heightens public concerns about emergency response capabilities and safety conditions in one of Havana's most sensitive industrial zones.
Key Questions About Ñico López Refinery Fire
What caused the fire at the Ñico López Refinery?
The specific cause of the fire at the Ñico López Refinery is still under investigation, according to the Ministry of Energy and Mines.
Were there any injuries reported in the fire?
No injuries have been reported as a result of the fire, as confirmed by the authorities.
How does this incident impact Cuba's energy sector?
This fire adds to a series of similar incidents in Cuba's energy sector, emphasizing ongoing concerns about industrial safety, maintenance issues, and resource shortages.