As Tropical Storm Melissa approaches, Santiago de Cuba's authorities have initiated a series of measures to tackle the challenges posed by this storm, amidst ongoing power outages, food shortages, and a health crisis.
During a meeting held by the Provincial Temporary Work Group on Friday, Beatriz Johnson Urrutia, the first secretary of the Communist Party, emphasized that the top priority is to safeguard human lives and protect the economy's assets.
Experts have warned about the soil's saturation due to previous rains, the condition of dams and basins, and the impact of a trough, which could lead to heavy rainfall, strong winds, and high waves in the coming days.
High-Risk Areas and Preventive Actions
According to local officials, there are 101 high-risk areas in the province, home to over 11,900 residents. Teams are visiting these communities to implement preventive measures.
Communication and Energy Measures
Radio enthusiasts are being stationed in areas likely to lose communication.
Generators are being installed in critical facilities to ensure their continued operation during the storm.
Public Health Precautions
Hospitals and medical centers are being equipped with sufficient oxygen cylinders.
Evacuation plans are in place for vulnerable groups, including nephrotic patients, infants, and pregnant women, especially in coastal areas or near rivers.
Blood donation drives have been initiated to bolster provincial blood banks.
Community and Environmental Services
Tree trimming and sanitation efforts are underway to prevent accidents and blockages.
Water Management and Food Supply
Drainage systems and catch basins are being cleaned to mitigate flood risks.
Efforts are being made to ensure markets and social centers remain supplied.
The coffee harvesting pace is being maintained, which is one of the region's key agricultural products.
Additional Sanitary and Legal Measures
Pharmacies are producing and distributing hypochlorite.
Efforts to control arboviruses include adulticide treatments, pesticide applications, and the use of larvicides.
The Defense Council Law will be enforced, allowing legal actions against those who fail to comply with protective measures.
Information dissemination is being reinforced through official media and mass organizations.
While the government claims that the province is "ready to face the storm," structural deficiencies, persistent power outages, and the lack of essential resources are causing concern among residents.
Many fear that the unstable electrical system and food scarcity could exacerbate the storm's impact.
The Civil Defense has urged the population to stay informed and follow local guidelines, as the Institute of Meteorology closely monitors Melissa’s path. The storm is moving northwest with the potential to intensify, possibly making landfall in Cuba as a major hurricane by Wednesday.
FAQs on Santiago de Cuba's Storm Preparedness
What are the primary concerns for Santiago de Cuba with Tropical Storm Melissa?
The main concerns are the ongoing power outages, food shortages, and potential health risks, compounded by the structural deficiencies in the region.
How is the local government preparing for the storm?
Authorities are implementing various measures, such as equipping critical facilities with generators, securing oxygen supplies for hospitals, and enforcing evacuation plans for vulnerable individuals.
What steps are being taken to ensure public health and safety?
Public health measures include securing oxygen cylinders, planning evacuations, initiating blood donation drives, and controlling arboviruses through various treatments.