Cuba is grappling with significant challenges following Hurricane Oscar, which has resulted in at least six fatalities and extensive property damage in the eastern part of the island. The province of Guantanamo has experienced widespread flooding, with rescue teams unable to reach affected areas, according to President Miguel Díaz-Canel. Authorities report that at least 1,000 homes have been damaged, and for the fourth consecutive night, the majority of the island's approximately 10 million residents have been without electricity.
On October 18, 2024, the country's aging electrical grid completely collapsed. According to the president, only one-third of the electricity supply has been restored to date. In the capital, Havana, around 90% of residents have regained power. The human casualties and material damage from the storm have further exacerbated the emergency situation, leading President Díaz-Canel to cancel his planned attendance at the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia.
Hurricane Oscar struck Cuba over the weekend and weakened into a tropical storm as it moved across the island, which is already suffering from power shortages. Heavy rainfall continues in eastern Cuba and the southwestern Bahamas as a result of the storm, as reported by the American Hurricane Monitoring Center.
In South Africa, the eThekwini municipality is assessing the impact of recent heavy rains that have affected around 50 structures in Clairwood. Although no injuries or fatalities have been reported, high water ingress has been noted. Emergency services are actively monitoring the situation and providing assistance to affected areas as the rainy weather persists. The public has been advised to remain vigilant and exercise caution while driving.