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After impacting the Bahamas, Hurricane Oscar has now made landfall in eastern Cuba, causing widespread power outages on the island. The United States National Hurricane Center reported that the storm hit the Cuban province of Guantanamo, near the city of Baracoa, with maximum sustained winds of 80 mph (130 kph). Forecasters are predicting heavy rainfall of 6 to 12 inches (15.2 to 30.5 centimeters) throughout eastern Cuba through early Wednesday, with some areas potentially receiving up to 18 inches (45.72 centimeters).
In addition to the heavy rainfall, there is concern about the possibility of a storm surge of up to 3 feet (0.91 meters) along Cuba’s north shore. This poses a significant risk to coastal communities, with residents urged to take precautions to ensure their safety. The authorities are closely monitoring the situation and providing updates to residents as the storm progresses.
As Hurricane Oscar moves through eastern Cuba, it is expected to weaken before turning northeast and heading towards the central Bahamas by Tuesday. The storm’s center is currently located east-southeast of Baracoa, moving at a speed of 7 mph (11 kph) in a west-southwest direction. The people of eastern Cuba are being advised to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel until the storm passes.
Emergency response teams are on high alert in preparation for potential flooding and other hazards caused by Hurricane Oscar. Residents are urged to follow evacuation orders and seek shelter in safe locations to ride out the storm. Local authorities are deploying resources to assist those in need and ensure a coordinated response to the emergency.
The impact of Hurricane Oscar on eastern Cuba is a stark reminder of the destructive power of these natural disasters. Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of hurricanes, posing a growing threat to vulnerable communities around the world. It is essential that we take action to mitigate the effects of climate change and build resilience in the face of these extreme weather events.
As the storm continues to move through eastern Cuba, residents are urged to stay informed and follow the advice of local authorities. By working together and supporting one another, we can overcome the challenges posed by Hurricane Oscar and emerge stronger and more resilient in its aftermath. Let us stand united in the face of adversity and rebuild our communities with hope and resilience.
