Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero on Thursday confirmed progress in the recovery of western Pinar del Río province, which was hit by heavy rains and strong winds from Tropical Storm Idalia, which later became a hurricane.

Pinar del Río, Cuba.- The Cuban head of Government, together with Deputy Prime Minister Jorge Luis Perdomo and several ministers, toured the affected areas in the municipalities of Sandino and Guane, which were the hardest hit by the meteorological event.

According to several tweets published by the Presidency of Cuba, Marrero verified that power services in the province have been recovered by 91 percent, and they are expected to be fully restored by the end of the week.

He also learned that according to preliminary statistics, the tropical storm damaged structures and roofs in some 1,000 houses and 52 schools, 48 of which were already rehabilitated for the beginning of the school year on September 4.

Marrero acknowledged the high level of preparedness in the province to face Tropical Storm Idalia and highlighted the wealth of experience and knowledge of local people responding to this kind of event successfully.

The Cuban leader also urged authorities to maintain discipline, organization, and citizen support, which can be perceived in this phase of recovery from the damage caused by the atmospheric phenomenon.

In general, Cuban government authorities appreciate the benefits of the rains associated with Idalia, especially for agriculture. (PL)