The National Civil Defense Headquarters has issued a Hurricane Alert Phase for the provinces of Camagüey, Las Tunas, Holguín, Granma, Santiago de Cuba, and Guantánamo, effective from 3:00 p.m. this Saturday, due to the progress and strengthening of Tropical Storm Melissa.
The official report indicates that Melissa has become more organized and has increased in intensity over the past few hours.
In the immediate future, the system is expected to gradually shift its path towards the west-northwest and west, moving slowly through the waters south of Jamaica. It is projected to continue to organize and intensify, potentially reaching hurricane status today.
The decision to activate the Alert Phase in the eastern and part of the central regions of the island is accompanied by an Informative Phase for Ciego de Ávila and Sancti Spíritus as a preparatory measure. This scenario remains under close observation by Civil Defense, the Meteorological Institute, and the National Institute of Hydraulic Resources.
Authorities have urged the public to stay informed through national media and official social media profiles, adhering strictly to the instructions from local governments and Civil Defense itself.
The report emphasizes that monitoring Melissa's development will be continuous, and any updates regarding its path and intensity will be promptly communicated through official channels to ensure public safety and minimize risks as hurricane conditions may approach in the coming hours.
Tropical Storm Melissa transitioned into a hurricane on Saturday afternoon and is expected to keep intensifying.
"Hurricane Melissa Advisory 17A: Melissa upgrades to a hurricane and is projected to rapidly intensify into a major hurricane by the end of the weekend," the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC) reported.
On Friday, Melissa caused flooding, landslides, and material damage in several provinces of the Dominican Republic.
Images reveal streets turned into rivers in areas like Herrera and San Cristóbal, with vehicles partially submerged and families seeking refuge in higher ground areas.
FAQs on Hurricane Melissa's Impact and Safety Measures
What areas are under the Hurricane Alert Phase for Melissa?
The Alert Phase is in effect for the provinces of Camagüey, Las Tunas, Holguín, Granma, Santiago de Cuba, and Guantánamo.
What measures should the population take in response to Hurricane Melissa?
Authorities advise the public to stay informed through national media and adhere to instructions from local governments and Civil Defense to ensure safety.
How is the trajectory of Hurricane Melissa expected to change?
Melissa is forecasted to shift its path gradually towards the west-northwest and west, moving slowly south of Jamaica.