HAVANA:  A massive  fire that set off a string of explosions at a fuel storage facility in Matanzas, Cuba's port, resulted in one fatality and 122 injuries, with 16 persons still missing, the Ministry of Public Health said in a statement.

A crude oil tank at the facility was engulfed in a huge blaze following a lightning strike at 7 pm. on August 5, reports said. The fire reached a second tank on the next morning and triggered a series of explosions.

The first lightning-struck tank held about 25,000 cubic litres of crude oil and was only halfway full. The lightning rod system allegedly failed to stop the fire, according to local authorities.  On Sunday, Mexican and Venezuelan experts assisted Cuban firemen in putting out the still-spreading fire.

At the scene, around 100 kilometres east of Havana, President Miguel Diaz-Canel told reporters, "Cuba lacks some resources and technologies essential to control this large-scale fire." 

According to government figures, about 5,000 people have so far been evacuated from the region. Social media posts showed a huge column of black smoke spreading 63 kilometres west to Havana, passing through the city of Matanzas.
Due to fuel limitations, the Caribbean country is experiencing an electrical shortfall. After the explosions, its power source might start to deteriorate even further.

Specialized fire crews from Venezuela and Mexico were on the scene trying to combat the blaze and avert it from spreading to other tanks and installations. "This morning was, once again seems difficult," the Cuban presidency said. "Firefighters continue fighting the intense fire as assistance comes from friendly countries. Today will be a pivotal day in our fight for life."

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