The United States National Hurricane Center (NHC) has released important updates in Spanish regarding Tropical Storm Melissa.
The storm is expected to bring heavy rainfall, sudden flash floods, and hazardous storm surges across several Caribbean islands, including Jamaica, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, eastern Cuba, the Bahamas, and the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Urgent Advice for Cuba
1. Vigilance in Eastern Regions: The NHC advises close monitoring of the storm's progression, particularly in the provinces of Guantánamo, Santiago de Cuba, Granma, and Holguín.
2. Flooding and Landslide Risk: Intense rainfall may lead to river overflows, landslides, and collapses in mountainous and rural areas.
3. Significant Storm Surge: There is an increasing threat of strong waves and coastal flooding in eastern Cuban shores by mid-next week.
4. Damaging Winds and Prolonged Rainfall: Melissa's slow movement could result in continuous rain and dangerous wind gusts for several days.
5. Urgent Preparations: The NHC urges local authorities and residents to take preventive measures immediately:
- Secure roofs and loose objects.
- Clear drains and gutters.
- Review evacuation plans in flood-prone areas.
Key Messages for the Rest of the Caribbean
Jamaica: Expect heavy rains, potentially catastrophic flooding, and landslides starting tonight.
Haiti: The southwestern region might experience extensive infrastructure damage and community isolation due to severe rain and winds.
Dominican Republic: Strong rainfall could trigger flash floods and landslides in southern regions.
Bahamas and Turks and Caicos: These areas should closely monitor Melissa's development due to the risk of storm surges and intense rainfall.
Tropical Storm Melissa continues its slow passage through the Caribbean and is anticipated to affect Cuba by mid-next week, bringing extended rainfall, destructive winds, and storm surge threats.
While it is essential to remain calm, early preparation is advised to manage potential flooding and landslides in the eastern parts of the country.
FAQs on Tropical Storm Melissa
What areas in Cuba are most at risk from Tropical Storm Melissa?
The eastern provinces of Guantánamo, Santiago de Cuba, Granma, and Holguín are most at risk from the storm.
What preventive measures should be taken for Tropical Storm Melissa?
Residents should secure roofs, clear drains, and review evacuation plans in flood-prone areas.
How might the storm affect infrastructure in Haiti?
The southwestern region of Haiti could suffer extensive damage to infrastructure and possible community isolation due to severe weather conditions.