Damage and flooding in Cuba after Hurricane Ida

Cuban residents on Saturday began attempts to repair damage caused by Hurricane Ida, as strong winds and currents left devastation in the western part of the island.

Juventud Island, off the southern coast of Cuba, and Pinar del Río province on the western end, were the worst affected areas.

The storm damaged plantations, fallen trees, flooded agricultural areas, non-functioning electricity grids, and damaged roofs.

No fatalities have been reported.

In Pinar del Río and neighboring Artemisa province, some 10,000 people had to be evacuated, mainly residents of low-lying or vulnerable areas.

Another 3,000 were evacuated from Juventud Island.

Forecasters have warned residents along the northern Gulf of Mexico coast to rush preparations Saturday ahead of an intensifying Hurricane Ida.

The Hurricane expected to bring winds as high as 130 mph (209 kph), life-threatening storm surge and flooding rain when it slams ashore in Louisiana on Sunday.

The U.S. National Hurricane Center warned Ida could grow to an extremely dangerous Category 4 storm.

IMAGE: AP