Cuban content creator Karina Elizabeth Sánchez Rodríguez, who is known on Instagram as @kary_y_jony, posted a video capturing her family's efforts in Cuba to collect rainwater using makeshift buckets and containers. The video highlights their ongoing struggle with a lack of water, even for basic drinking needs.
"What my family and the rest of the Cubans are experiencing is truly distressing. They haven't had water to drink for days. Thank God it's raining," Karina shared alongside the video, which drew numerous reactions of sympathy and concern.
The footage reveals how two individuals crafted a system using plastic vessels and metal channels to gather rainwater and channel it into the home's cistern.
Comments from followers express a blend of sadness and resignation. "It's heartbreaking how we Cubans have to improvise," one user commented. Another offered words of hope: "God will provide."
Understanding Cuba's Water Crisis: A Structural Breakdown
The Cuban regime reported in May 2026 that a staggering 2.7 million people lack regular access to potable water, with nearly 10 million receiving water services sporadically.
In Havana, the situation has rapidly worsened, with those affected increasing from 200,000 in April to over 500,000 by July 2026.
A critical 87% of Cuban aqueducts are reliant on the National Electric System, meaning each power outage—lasting between 12 to 20 hours daily in many areas during 2026—halts the pumps and disrupts water supplies.
In the absence of governmental solutions, Cubans have turned to an informal water economy. A water truck can cost between 18,000 and 50,000 Cuban pesos on Havana's black market, a price out of reach for most. Those unable to afford it rely on homemade rainwater collection systems, makeshift wells, or community cisterns.
Recently, two young girls, around seven years old, were seen carrying large water containers from a primary school's cistern in Havana. Additionally, another Cuban reported enduring nine consecutive months without water in her neighborhood.
FAQs About Cuba's Water Situation
What is the extent of the water crisis in Cuba?
As of May 2026, 2.7 million Cubans lack regular access to safe drinking water, while nearly 10 million experience intermittent water services.
How have Cubans adapted to the water shortages?
Cubans have resorted to creating an informal water economy. Many rely on rainwater collection systems, makeshift wells, or community cisterns to cope with the shortages.
What role do power outages play in the water crisis?
Power outages, lasting between 12 to 20 hours daily, stop the pumps that supply water, exacerbating the crisis as the majority of aqueducts depend on the electric grid.