The death toll from the hotel explosion in Havana rose to 42, according to a report from the Cuban Ministry of Health.
A total of 96 people were injured, 42 of them died, and 18 remain under medical supervision in six hospitals. Four dozen patients have been discharged to date.
Search and rescue efforts continue at the site to recover victims and assist survivors.
Earlier coverage noted about 40 victims among those affected.
A large explosion struck the Saratoga Hotel in Havana, causing partial destruction of the building and damage to nearby vehicles. The exact cause remains under investigation. The preliminary assessment points to a gas leak and an explosion from a household gas filling tank as a potential source.
Nana Mgeladze, Consul General of the Russian Federation to Cuba, stated that the Russian consulate has not received information about Russian nationals who may have been injured in the Havana hotel blast.
Saratoga stands among Havana’s most renowned hotels. The historic building dates back to the 19th century and operated as a hotel from 1933 through the 1960s. It has hosted notable visitors and delegations over the years, including royal figures and members of U.S. Congress. The contemporary hotel reopened in 2005 following extensive restoration.