The people of Santiago de Cuba are facing a period of anxiety and vulnerability with Hurricane Melissa on the horizon, dealing with extended power outages and shortages of drinking water and food.
Residents report that they are preparing "as best they can" without adequate institutional support, while authorities, criticized by citizens, remain stuck in "evaluation" mode from their offices.
"Every man for himself... Storm Melissa threatens eastern Cuba, and Santiago might take the hardest hit. Rain, winds, and power outages are inevitable... The people of Santiago are preparing with fear, without resources, and without trust. Secure your homes, store water and food, and help your neighbors. Here, only the people can save the people!" shared local journalist Yosmany Mayeta on his Facebook page.
Entire families are caught in a state of precariousness: "Many people have nowhere to live, or their homes are not in livable conditions," "they haven't even brought the basic food basket," "there's no gas, no running water," are some of the testimonies circulating on Facebook.
Calls for Immediate Preventive Actions
There's also a demand for immediate preventive actions: "Fewer meetings and more action: evacuate, trim trees, and clear drains."
Mayeta Labrada's warning emphasizes community self-protection in anticipation of heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and further power outages. Neighbors are calling for not just "resilience," but for the establishment of water points, securing roofs, and prioritizing care for the elderly, children, and families in vulnerable housing.
Community Urges Mutual Support
Amidst these shortages, the most repeated call among Santiago residents is to look out for one another and share what little they have: "All we have left is to take care of ourselves and ask God to protect us," "We have no water, we'll die of thirst," "May God have mercy," echo numerous messages.
As Melissa moves closer to the eastern region, the community demands timely information, visible measures in neighborhoods, and clear, practical advice: secure homes, store water when possible, prepare non-perishable food, clear out drains, and assist the most vulnerable.
Melissa transformed into a hurricane on Saturday afternoon and is projected to continue intensifying as it approaches the Greater Antilles.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) in the U.S. reported: "Hurricane Melissa Advisory 17A: Melissa becomes a hurricane and is expected to intensify rapidly into a major hurricane by the end of the weekend."
On Friday, Melissa caused flooding, landslides, and material damage across several provinces in the Dominican Republic.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hurricane Melissa
What are the main concerns for Santiago de Cuba with Hurricane Melissa?
The principal concerns include prolonged power outages, shortages of drinking water and food, and the potential for significant damage to homes and infrastructure.
How can residents prepare for Hurricane Melissa?
Residents are advised to secure their homes, store water and non-perishable food, clear drains, and assist vulnerable community members such as the elderly and children.
What actions are being criticized regarding the authorities' response?
Authorities are criticized for remaining in an "evaluation" phase without taking visible and effective measures to support and protect the community.