On Thursday, March 5th, educational authorities in Havana decided to halt academic activities across all educational institutions in the capital, including daycare centers, in response to the ongoing power crisis that followed a massive blackout the previous evening.
This announcement was reported by the magazine Hola Habana, part of the state-run Canal Habana, which referenced a statement from the General Directorate of Education in the capital city.
The agency explained that the decision was prompted by the current electrical situation and urged the educational community to remain vigilant for official updates.
Conversely, this suspension has not been implemented in Matanzas. According to the state newspaper Girón, the education department in the province "categorically denied the rumors circulating in informal groups and social media regarding an alleged suspension of educational activities in the area."
The report further stated that "educational authorities have devised strategies to ensure the continuity of the educational process."
The suspension in Havana follows a widespread blackout caused by the unexpected shutdown of the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant in Matanzas, the largest in the country.
This incident disrupted the National Electrical System, leaving vast regions of Cuba without power on Wednesday night.
The Havana Electric Company announced that gradual restoration of services began overnight in the capital.
As per the latest update issued at 5:28 a.m., 20 substations and 98 distribution circuits had been restored, allowing the resumption of electricity services to 296,467 clients, covering 34% of Havana's users.
The company emphasized that during the reconnection process, essential services such as 37 hospitals and five water supply systems were prioritized.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Energy and Mines reported that as of 5:01 a.m., the National Electrical System was once again interconnected from Guantánamo to Pinar del Río, although they noted that the reintegration of generating units is proceeding gradually.
Despite the system's reconnection, numerous areas across the country remain either without electricity or experience unstable service.
Understanding Cuba's Recent Power Outages
What caused the power outage in Cuba?
The power outage in Cuba was triggered by the unexpected shutdown of the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant in Matanzas, the largest power plant in the country.
How did the power outage affect Havana?
Havana experienced a widespread blackout, leading to the suspension of classes in all educational institutions, including daycare centers, as the city grappled with the power crisis.
What measures were taken to restore electricity in Havana?
The Havana Electric Company began a gradual restoration of services, prioritizing essential services such as hospitals and water supply systems, resulting in the recovery of 20 substations and 98 distribution circuits.