Heavy rains linked to Tropical Storm Melissa triggered landslides in mountainous areas and caused the partial collapse of Quiviján's main bridge in Baracoa this Friday, rendering it impassable for vehicles.
Local media outlet Venceremos reported that this collapse disrupted a vital communication route within the Baracoa municipality, according to local authorities.
The main bridge in Quiviján, now partially collapsed, is closed to vehicular traffic, severing a critical connection to nearby communities.
The intense rainfall led to significant landslides, obstructing sections of the central highway and secondary roads in the mountainous terrain.
Overflowing streams overwhelmed the sewer system, resulting in flooding in populated areas.
Eider Milhet Laborí, the President of Baracoa's Municipal Assembly of People's Power (AMPP), shared a preliminary damage assessment on his Facebook account, while Radio Baracoa collected community reports on the storm's impacts.
Additionally, minor damage to various crops, particularly cocoa—an important economic product in Baracoa—was noted.
Local authorities are conducting technical evaluations of the bridge and working on clearing roads blocked by landslides. Safety measures are in place in the most hazardous areas to prevent accidents and disorder during the emergency.
Severe Flooding in Baracoa Amid Tropical Storm Melissa
Recent torrential rains in Baracoa, located in Guantánamo province, have caused severe flooding in several regions, including the Flora and Turey neighborhoods.
The rainfall, attributed to Tropical Storm Melissa, is associated with the storm's slow movement near Jamaica. The storm could strengthen and strike Cuba as a powerful hurricane by Wednesday.
Cuba's National Civil Defense Staff released Informative Note No. 1 regarding Tropical Storm Melissa on Friday, warning of its growing strength in the western Caribbean. The storm may escalate to a Category 3 hurricane in the coming days before impacting the island.
The agency has declared an Informative Phase for the provinces of Guantánamo, Santiago de Cuba, Granma, Holguín, Las Tunas, and Camagüey effective from 2:00 p.m. today. This aims to prompt authorities to begin preparations for the impending meteorological emergency.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tropical Storm Melissa and Its Impact on Baracoa
What caused the partial collapse of the Quiviján bridge?
The partial collapse of the Quiviján bridge was caused by heavy rains associated with Tropical Storm Melissa, leading to landslides in the mountainous areas.
What are the current conditions in Baracoa following the storm?
Baracoa is experiencing severe flooding, landslides, and road blockages due to the torrential rains. Efforts are underway to clear obstructed roads and assess infrastructure damage.
How is the government responding to the threat of Tropical Storm Melissa?
The Cuban National Civil Defense has issued an Informative Phase for several provinces, urging authorities to prepare for the storm which may become a Category 3 hurricane.