Oil Refinery Ablaze in Cuba as Fuel Crisis Deepens

The English Chronicle
Publishing Date: 14 February 2026
Desk: World News / Energy & Crisis Desk

An oil refinery in Cuba has been engulfed in flames, intensifying an already severe fuel crisis that has gripped the island nation in recent months. Dramatic footage circulating online shows thick plumes of black smoke billowing into the sky as emergency crews battle the blaze.

Authorities confirmed that firefighters were dispatched swiftly to contain the fire, though the full extent of the damage remains unclear. The incident threatens to further disrupt fuel supplies across the country, where shortages have already led to long queues and rolling transport interruptions.

Preliminary reports indicate that the blaze broke out late in the evening at one of Cuba’s key refining facilities. While officials have not yet confirmed the exact cause, early speculation points to a possible technical fault or equipment failure.

Local authorities said nearby residents were evacuated as a precaution, and emergency protocols were activated to prevent the fire from spreading to storage tanks.

“All necessary measures are being taken to contain the situation,” a government spokesperson said.

No immediate casualties have been reported, though investigations are ongoing.

Cuba has been grappling with persistent fuel shortages driven by a combination of reduced imports, infrastructure strain, and economic challenges. The refinery fire could significantly worsen the crisis, particularly if operations are suspended for an extended period.

In recent weeks:

Public transport services have been curtailed
Businesses have reported power disruptions
Fuel rationing measures have been tightened

Analysts warn that further disruption to refining capacity may deepen the strain on daily life and the broader economy.

The island’s economy, already facing inflation and supply chain difficulties, relies heavily on imported crude and refined petroleum products. Damage to domestic refining infrastructure risks increasing dependency on costly imports at a time when foreign currency reserves are under pressure.

Energy experts suggest that prolonged shutdowns could impact electricity generation and agricultural distribution networks, compounding hardship for ordinary citizens.

While no foreign governments have yet commented directly on the refinery fire, regional observers are closely monitoring developments. Any sustained reduction in fuel output could affect shipping logistics and regional trade patterns in the Caribbean.

Humanitarian organisations have also expressed concern that worsening shortages may further strain vulnerable communities.

Cuban officials have sought to reassure the public that contingency plans are in place. Emergency fuel reserves may be deployed to stabilise supply in critical sectors, including hospitals and food distribution.

However, with infrastructure already under stress, the fire represents a significant setback.

The refinery blaze marks a critical moment for Cuba as it navigates a deepening fuel crisis. With supplies already stretched thin, the incident threatens to exacerbate economic hardship and daily disruption across the island.

As investigators work to determine the cause and assess the damage, the nation faces renewed uncertainty over its energy stability in the weeks ahead.

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