In early September 2017, one of the largest hurricanes ever recorded charged through the northern Caribbean region, leaving flooding and wreckage in its wake. Hurricane Irma made landfall as a category 5 storm the width of Texas, with wind speeds of 185 mph - its force sucked bays dry before creating storm surges that raced inland.
The research for this book was completed and sent to print before the storm passed over Cuba. The island sustained significant damage to its north coast and keys, and downtown areas of Havana experienced waist-deep flooding. Tourism is Cuba's primary industry, and authorities announced their intention to reopen as soon as possible; before you travel, check the official government website and advice from state travel entities for information on any travel restrictions or significant closures.