The top official of the Communist Party in Holguín province, Joel Queipo Ruiz, has indicated that the region is bracing for "the worst-case scenario" as Storm Melissa approaches. Melissa, which could escalate into a hurricane, poses a threat to the National Electric System, potentially causing widespread power outages.
In a video shared on Facebook by content creator Edmundo Dantés Jr., Queipo detailed that preventative measures have been in place since Wednesday, October 22, due to the proximity of Melissa. The primary concern, he emphasized, is the protection of human lives, which remains their utmost priority.
Queipo noted that "communication capsules" have been established with remote areas to ensure information flow, even if electrical or communication systems fail. He stressed the need to be prepared for a possible power disconnection and encouraged the use of alternative methods, such as motorbikes, to disseminate information.
Adding to the calls for community support, Queipo urged neighbors to share resources, saying, "Those with generators should help charge cell phones and provide power, household to household."
In the context of ongoing prolonged blackouts affecting Cuba, Deputy Prime Minister Inés María Chapman recently suggested a similar "solution" to keep the public informed: using a generator-powered television in the streets so residents can watch government briefings during outages.
According to the Communist Party leader in the northeastern province, local media have been actively covering the meteorological event, which could worsen in the coming hours.
Thursday marked another collapse of the SEN, leaving much of Cuba without electricity as the nearly hurricane-strength Melissa looms closer. Forecasts suggest a rapid intensification, with the storm potentially striking Cuba's eastern region as a Category 4 or 5 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson scale, with winds exceeding 155 mph.
As the nation braces for heavy rains and strong winds, millions of Cubans face darkness and a lack of communication from the authorities, who yet again have acknowledged a "partial failure" in the system without providing clear explanations.
This year has seen multiple SEN failures attributed by officials to "adverse weather conditions" or insufficient generation in specific areas, all amid the structural decay of the island's energy infrastructure and inefficiencies in system planning and maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Storm Melissa Impact
What measures are being taken in Holguín to prepare for Storm Melissa?
Authorities in Holguín are setting up "communication capsules" with remote areas to maintain information flow, even if the power or communication systems fail. They are also encouraging the use of alternative methods to share information and resources among the community.
How has the Cuban government responded to the potential power outages caused by Storm Melissa?
The government has acknowledged the possibility of power outages and is taking preventative measures. Deputy Prime Minister Inés María Chapman suggested using generator-powered televisions in public spaces to keep people informed during outages.