Cuba Struggles to Reignite Power Amid Crisis

Cuba faced significant challenges restoring electricity after a series of grid failures, with millions left without power amid Hurricane Oscar's approach. The government implemented school closures and restricted work attendance, while blackouts, deteriorating infrastructure, fuel shortages, and geopolitical factors exacerbated the energy crisis.

Cuba was making effortful progress to restore power on Sunday following multiple setbacks, which left millions without electricity two days after the grid initially collapsed. As Hurricane Oscar approached, authorities braced for further challenges, emphasizing the considerable difficulties in reestablishing power services.

In what officials warned as an 'extremely dangerous situation', eastern Cuba faced widespread power outages as winds reached up to 100 mph. The government took the unusual step of canceling school until Wednesday and limiting work attendance to essential personnel.

Minister of Energy and Mines, Vicente de la O Levy, expressed cautious optimism, predicting full grid restoration by early in the week, but warned of continued blackouts due to part shortages and fuel scarcity. Meanwhile, minor protests erupted as Havana residents endured ongoing power disruptions.