Hurricane Melissa, a formidable Category 3 storm, has been wreaking havoc across Cuba as it moves north-northeast at 14 mph (22 kph), with maximum sustained winds reaching 105 mph (165 kph). The U.S. National Hurricane Center reports that hundreds of thousands of residents have been evacuated to shelters as a precaution. A hurricane warning is currently in effect for several provinces, including Granma, Santiago de Cuba, Guantánamo, Holguin, and Las Tunas, alongside warnings for the southeastern and central Bahamas.
Having earlier struck Jamaica with astonishing winds of 185 mph (295 kph), Melissa is now centered approximately 45 miles (70 kilometers) northwest of Guantánamo and 205 miles (335 kilometers) south of the central Bahamas. The National Hurricane Center underscores the urgency for residents in the Bahamas to finalize their storm preparations promptly.
While Melissa weakened over land, forecasters indicate it could maintain its strength as it crosses Cuba, with expectations of reaching the vicinity of Bermuda by late Thursday, where a hurricane watch has been issued. As the storm progresses, it is projected to generate a storm surge up to 12 feet (3.6 meters) and drop as much as 20 inches (51 centimeters) of rain in parts of eastern Cuba. This intense rainfall raises alarming concerns about life-threatening flooding and potential landslides.
Cuba’s already fragile economy may face further strain, exacerbating issues like persistent power outages, fuel, and food shortages. In a televised address, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel acknowledged the impending challenges and emphasized that “no one is left behind” in the nation’s efforts to protect lives. He cautioned residents to take Melissa seriously, labeling it “the strongest ever to hit national territory.”
In Jamaica, officials are assessing the extent of the storm’s damage. Reports indicate that over half a million residents were left without power on Tuesday, and the landscape is littered with downed trees and flooded areas. Deputy Chairman of Jamaica’s Disaster Risk Management Council, Desmond McKenzie, remarked on significant damage in regions like Clarendon and the southwest parish of St. Elizabeth, stating that some areas were “under water.” The storm struck multiple healthcare facilities, incapacitating four hospitals and prompting the evacuation of 75 patients from one that lost power.
Jamaican authorities anticipate reopening all airports by Thursday to facilitate the swift distribution of emergency supplies. Unfortunately, the storm has been linked to seven fatalities across the Caribbean-three in Jamaica, three in Haiti, and one in the Dominican Republic-where one individual is still reportedly missing.
As Hurricane Melissa continues on its path, the Caribbean region remains on high alert, contending with the aftermath of an extraordinary storm that has already left a trail of destruction and disruption in its wake. Emergency services are mobilizing in anticipation of further challenges as the hurricane progresses, highlighting the urgent need for safety and preparedness in affected areas.
Original Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/10/29/hurricane-melissa-landfall-cuba.html
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Publish Date: 2025-10-29 19:59:00
