On Friday, the Boca de Jauco bridge in Maisí collapsed, cutting off the municipality from the rest of the province due to heavy rains brought by Tropical Storm Melissa.
Local authorities reported that the structural failure has left a significant portion of the Boca de Jauco community isolated, severing vital connections with the surrounding areas.
The bridge's collapse has completely halted vehicle traffic, disrupting Maisí's road links both within the municipality and with the broader province.
Despite a calm morning, recent heavy downpours have eroded and damaged crucial access roads. In response to the bridge's fall, security measures have been put in place to prevent "indiscipline" and potential accidents, with repeated reminders to follow the Civil Defense's directives.
This structural failure occurs amidst preventive measures being taken due to the threat posed by Melissa.
The bridge's progressive deterioration, exacerbated by several days of rainfall, ultimately led to its collapse, according to a municipal update.
The disruption of transit is impacting the supply chain, movement of personnel, and emergency response efforts within Maisí. Authorities have stressed that, until further notice, all transportation is restricted, urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel and to respect safety perimeters.
Tropical Storm Melissa keeps eastern Cuba on edge, as the country endures one of its worst crises in recent years, characterized by over 18-hour daily power outages, communication breakdowns, and scant official information on the weather event.
The National Civil Defense Staff of Cuba issued Informative Note No. 1 on Friday regarding the tropical storm, which is gaining strength in the western Caribbean. It could escalate to a Category 3 hurricane in the coming days before impacting the island.
The entity has declared the Informative Phase for the provinces of Guantánamo, Santiago de Cuba, Granma, Holguín, Las Tunas, and Camagüey, effective from 2:00 p.m. today, to enable authorities to prepare for the impending meteorological emergency.
Impact of Tropical Storm Melissa on Maisí
What caused the Boca de Jauco bridge to collapse?
The collapse was caused by the structural deterioration of the bridge, exacerbated by several days of heavy rainfall associated with Tropical Storm Melissa.
How is the collapse affecting Maisí?
The collapse has halted all vehicle movement, affecting supply chains, personnel transit, and emergency response within the municipality.
What measures are being taken in response to the collapse?
Security measures have been implemented to prevent accidents and maintain order, with authorities urging the public to adhere to safety guidelines and avoid unnecessary travel.