UPDATE: Category 3 Hurricane Melissa has officially made landfall in Cuba, unleashing maximum sustained winds of 120 mph and torrential rainfall of 10 to 20 inches. The National Hurricane Center confirmed this urgent development just hours ago, heightening concerns for the affected regions.
Hurricane Melissa, which previously devastated Jamaica, is now poised to wreak havoc on the Cuban coastline. The storm’s impact is expected to be severe, with flooding and wind damage posing immediate threats to life and property. Residents are urged to seek shelter and prepare for power outages as the storm advances inland.
The situation is critical as reports indicate that Melissa made landfall near Santa Cruz del Sur at approximately 3:00 PM local time. Emergency services are on high alert, and evacuations are underway in vulnerable areas. Officials are working to secure shelters and ensure that residents have access to food and medical supplies.
As of now, authorities report that more than 100,000 individuals are in the path of the storm. The combination of high winds and heavy rainfall raises the risk of flash flooding, landslides, and downed power lines, which could leave many without electricity for days.
Forecasts predict that Hurricane Melissa will continue to push through the island, with potential tropical storm conditions affecting areas well beyond the immediate landfall zone. Residents are advised to stay tuned to local news for real-time updates and heed all warnings from Cuban meteorological authorities.
The human impact of this storm cannot be understated. Many families are facing the threat of displacement and loss of property. Photos and videos flooding social media show the destruction in Jamaica, amplifying the urgency for Cubans to take the storm seriously.
As Hurricane Melissa progresses, it is crucial for everyone in the affected areas to remain vigilant. This developing situation will continue to evolve, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Stay safe and informed. Follow official channels for emergency updates and ensure you have a plan in place. The time to act is now.