Havana - The Cuban government evacuated areas of the country's west as hurricane Gustav approached, prompting authorities in the island country elevate to the highest state of readiness.

According to Cuban state television, cities and communities from Pinar del Rio in the furthermost west of the country to the capital Havana were taking all preparations necessary to protect the population against the hurricane, which had reached winds of up to 140 kilometres per hour.

Weather services anticipate that Gustav would reach Cuba by Saturday afternoon.

Gustav reached hurricane strength Friday with sustained winds of up to 120 kilometres per hours, as it sped towards Cuba and the US Gulf Coast.

US authorities expressed concern that the storm could hit the states of Louisiana and Mississippi with full force, three years after the devastating hurricanes Katrina and Rita. (dpa)