Location:  Cuba 

Event:  Cuba’s water delivery infrastructure is increasingly unstable.  The Embassy is aware of reports of residential neighborhoods that have gone for long periods without receiving water from municipal or public sources. 

Prolonged and worsening water issues and power outages caused by the regime’s mismanagement of public infrastructure impact the entire island.  Water often only flows to residences when city power is on for a sufficient amount of time.  Media reports indicate wells are running dry across the country due to drought, aggravating the ability to supplement water delivery.

The lack of water, coupled with power shortages that have disrupted cold chain networks, can present significant health and safety challenges.  We remind U.S. citizens to be aware of the risks when traveling to Cuba and take precautions.  

U.S. citizens with emergencies can call +(53) (7) 839-4100; after hours dial 1, then 0. 

Actions to Take: 

• Prepare for prolonged power and water outages by:
  • Keeping mobile phones and portable battery banks charged
  • Having flashlights and spare batteries in a location easy to access
  • Stocking up on potable drinking water, non-potable water for personal hygiene, and nonperishable food
  • Preparing for alternative methods of meeting your medical needs (maintaining adequate supplies of basic
  • medications, medical devices requiring power, medicines requiring refrigeration, etc.)
• Monitor local media for updates. 
• Review daily updates published by UNE (Unión Eléctrica)  and follow UNE’s social media accounts.
• Stay in touch with family and friends.
• Check with your travel insurance provider  about medical evacuation options should you fall ill while overseas.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive updates from the U.S. embassy.

Assistance:

U.S. Embassy Havana, Cuba

Phone number: +53-7-839-4100; after hours dial 1, then 0

Email: acshavana@state.gov

U.S. Citizen Consular Information: Embassy Havana WhatsApp channel  

State Department – Consular Affairs +1-888-407-4747 or +1-202-501-4444

Cuba Country Information  

Enroll in the SMART Traveler Enrollment Program  (STEP) to receive security updates. 

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