By Jaylyn Gonzalez

In the hours between seven and eight Sunday evening, various storm warnings were issued throughout South Florida. However, at the last second, the storm took a turn to Cuba, developing into a tornado that left the already fragile capital, Havana, in shambles.

The unexpected and monstrous tornado ripped through the Cuban streets; Vehicles and pieces of houses were crushed by falling debris and thrown around like toy cars as it tore through Havana neighborhoods.

The storm lasted throughout late Sunday and early Monday, causing a blackout that hit many areas at around 9 p.m Sunday.

According to information published by local media outlet Cubanet, the affected neighborhoods include Santo Suárez, Luyanó, Vía Blanca, Regla and Chibás. But, the neighborhood of Regla appeared to have suffered some of the worst damage.

During the storm, residents of the Cuban capital said that the tornado sounded like a “jet engine” taking off and felt changes in environmental pressure as it hit.

“The damage is severe, so far we regret the loss of three human lives and are treating 172 injured,” tweeted Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel Bermudez Monday morning.  

Recovery efforts are still in action to help those affected by the storm, even though supplies are limited.

“The ambulance and police sirens have not stopped. We are in the dark,” one resident told local media. “Everything looks desolate, like in a science fiction movie.”

Due to the low socio-economic status of the people in Cuba, it will take a long time for them to recuperate what was destroyed. Once property is lost, it’s nearly impossible to retrieve because no insurance is available to protect their property.

With little food, electricity, and water, supplies for the next few weeks will be scarce.