Hurricane Melissa Intensifies with 93 mph Winds: Cuba on High Alert

Hurricane Melissa is continuing to gain strength in the Caribbean, now reaching maximum sustained winds of 93 miles per hour, according to the latest update from the United States National Hurricane Center (NHC).

On Saturday, the NHC warned that the storm is "beginning a rapid intensification process" and could escalate to a major hurricane status in the coming hours, posing a serious threat as it moves dangerously close to Jamaica and eastern Cuba.

The NHC pinpointed the hurricane's center at 16.6 degrees north and 75.5 degrees west, approximately 130 miles southeast of Kingston, Jamaica, and 250 miles southwest of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, moving slowly westward at 4 mph.

Cuban authorities have issued a hurricane warning for provinces stretching from Camagüey to Guantánamo, given the possibility of direct impact on this region by mid-next week.

The advisory warns that Melissa could bring between 6 to 12 inches of rain to eastern Cuba, with localized amounts reaching up to 18 inches, leading to flash floods and landslides.

Additionally, the southern coast is expected to experience high surf and potential storm surges, with the risk of sea water penetrating low-lying areas.

Meanwhile, Jamaica and southern Haiti are bracing for a direct hit from the hurricane, which is already causing heavy rains and flooding in several areas, as reported by regional media. In the Dominican Republic, the storm's outer bands have led to flooding and power outages in southwestern communities.

Cuban meteorologist José Rubiera has warned that Melissa poses "a real danger to eastern Cuba" and urged residents not to underestimate the severity of the storm.

The hurricane's advance comes at a challenging time for the eastern provinces, which are already grappling with power outages, fuel shortages, and deteriorated housing, increasing the vulnerability of thousands of families.

Local authorities in Granma have admitted that "not all necessary measures are being taken" in anticipation of the storm, while citizens report a lack of information and resources to adequately prepare.

The NHC forecasts that Melissa will maintain major hurricane status as it approaches eastern Cuba between Tuesday and Wednesday, with the potential to cause significant damage. Residents are advised to stay informed through official updates and follow the guidance of authorities.