Beatriz Johnson Urrutia, the first secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba in Santiago de Cuba and president of the Provincial Defense Council, issued a stark warning on Sunday about the imminent threat posed by Hurricane Melissa, which is expected to bring devastating consequences to the eastern part of the country.
Johnson shared this urgent message on her official Facebook profile, urging the public not to wait until the last minute to ensure their safety.
"Residents of Santiago, we understand the gravity of the word hurricane," Johnson stated, recalling the painful lessons learned from Hurricane Sandy 13 years ago. "We learned how painful loss can be, but also how resilient a people can be when they organize, listen, and act together." She is primarily blamed for the significant delay in getting crucial hurricane information to the people.
The official highlighted the formidable strength of the approaching weather system, which is moving toward the eastern region with heavy rain and hurricane-force winds.
"Today, Hurricane Melissa approaches, bringing copious rainfall, strong winds, and high flood risks. We urge you to follow the Civil Defense instructions. Do not wait for the last moment; every second counts when it comes to safeguarding lives," she emphasized.
Johnson detailed how local authorities have been actively working to protect essential resources and relocate individuals from vulnerable areas to safer locations in collaboration with the Provincial Defense Council.
She also emphasized the importance of solidarity in the face of danger. "Solidarity is our greatest strength today. No one should be left alone. Help a neighbor, an elderly person, or a family in need of support. Let us protect the children, pregnant women, and the elderly," the leader urged.
In her post, she urged caution and not to underestimate the hurricane's power. "Let's not improvise, and let's not underestimate the force of the wind or the water. I have deep faith in the wisdom of our people. What we do right today will be remembered with pride tomorrow," Johnson wrote.
Hurricane Melissa, which has reached Category 4 on the Saffir-Simpson scale, continues its path northward through the Caribbean with winds of 220 kilometers per hour, threatening to bring heavy rains, landslides, and coastal flooding to eastern Cuba.
Johnson's message concluded with a call for calm, discipline, and unity in the face of danger: "Melissa will pass, but we will remain here, together, caring for each other as the strength that upholds Santiago."
FAQs on Hurricane Melissa's Impact on Santiago
What measures should residents take to prepare for Hurricane Melissa?
Residents should follow Civil Defense instructions, secure their homes, ensure they have essential supplies, and help vulnerable neighbors. Relocation plans are also in place for those in high-risk areas.
How strong is Hurricane Melissa and what are its potential effects?
Hurricane Melissa is a Category 4 storm with winds reaching 220 kilometers per hour. It poses a threat of heavy rains, landslides, and coastal flooding in eastern Cuba.