it is true that cuba does a much better job at controlling its citizens (and, presumably, informing them of impending hurricanes). (dotearth.blogs.nytimes.com)
The reason the department gave for the order was the impending Hurricane Irma, which raged across the north coast of the island a few days later. (businessinsider.com)
I'm cooped up in my house tomorrow due to this impending hurricane thing (not really worried but work is closed and I'm not taking my 6 - month - old out in the rain) so I'm considering heading out tonight to get supplies to make these tomorrow... I'll keep you posted! (smittenkitchen.com)