Cuba hotel explosion: Death toll climbs to 22, dozens injured

Havana: At least 22 people have been killed while more than 70 sustained injuries after a huge explosion ripped through a historic hotel in Havana— one of Cuba's most exclusive five-star hotels.

As per details, the hotel’s first four floors were gutted in the late-morning explosion that sent a cloud of dust and smoke billowing into the air. 

It is believed a gas tanker which was parked outside the luxury hotel ignited, causing an explosion.

It tore off large parts of the facade, blew out windows and destroyed cars parked outside the hotel, while the dome of a nearby Baptist church also collapsed. 

Reportedly, the historic hotel was set for a post-pandemic reopening in four days. However, the 96-room hotel, which has two bars, two restaurants and a rooftop pool, according to its website, was under renovation.

Search and rescue operations are currently underway to locate people trapped under the debris.

The injured are being treated at nearby hospitals.

The incident comes as tourism in the country was re-emerging from two difficult years caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The 19th century building is synonymous in Havana with visiting celebrities—after stars such as Madonna and Beyonce stayed there during the thaw between Havana and Washington under President Barack Obama. 

Moreover, the Hotel Saratoga has been used frequently by visiting VIPs and political figures, including high-ranking U.S. government delegations. 

The hotel was first renovated in 2005 as part of the Cuban government's revival of Old Havana and is owned by the Cuban military's tourism business arm, Grupo de Turismo Gaviota SA.