Hurricane Melissa is intensifying over the central Caribbean, boasting maximum sustained winds of 220 kilometers per hour, as reported by the National Hurricane Center (NHC). Its westward movement has put eastern Cuba on high alert, with the storm's effects anticipated to begin late Tuesday night or in the early hours of Wednesday.
Cuban meteorologist Rubén Capote, who serves as the chief meteorologist at Telemundo 49, provided an analysis on TikTok. He noted that the cyclone maintains a steady course with a compact structure, featuring hurricane-force winds extending about 25 miles and tropical storm-force winds reaching up to 175 miles from its center.
This extensive reach places regions of the western Caribbean, including Jamaica and eastern Cuba, at risk of experiencing severe gusts.
Potential Impact on Eastern Cuba
"By early Tuesday morning, the outer edges of those tropical storm-force winds are expected to brush against the southern coast of eastern Cuba," Capote explained. He highlighted that areas such as Guantánamo, Santiago de Cuba, Granma, and parts of Las Tunas could face sustained gusts and intermittent rainfall throughout much of Tuesday and Wednesday.
Capote emphasized that the 140-mile-per-hour winds reported by the NHC are "most intense near the storm's center and generally potential," meaning they are not uniformly spread across the affected area.
Precautionary Measures and Weather Forecast
Nonetheless, Capote advised caution, particularly due to the potential for increased swells and the arrival of rain bands that could lead to significant precipitation.
According to the latest updates, the eye of the hurricane has yet to determine a direct path toward Cuban landfall, but eastern Cuba remains under active watch for strong winds, heavy rains, and swells expected from Tuesday night onwards.
Satellite images reveal a well-defined eye and deep convection, indicative of a formidable system that could escalate to Category 5 as it nears the eastern Bahamas.
The Cuban Institute of Meteorology (INSMET) has issued warnings about intense swells along the coasts of Granma, Santiago de Cuba, and Guantánamo, as well as heavy rainfall associated with the storm's outer bands.
Even though wind influence is anticipated to diminish gradually from Wednesday onward, the waves will continue to pose a threat throughout the week due to the wind's "almost perpendicular orientation to the southeastern coast," Capote noted.
He concluded his message with a clear warning: "Take care, we're keeping an eye on the weather," reminding everyone that the situation could shift rapidly if Melissa alters its route or strengthens further.
Key Questions About Hurricane Melissa's Impact on Cuba
What regions in Cuba are at risk from Hurricane Melissa?
Eastern Cuban regions such as Guantánamo, Santiago de Cuba, Granma, and parts of Las Tunas are at risk of experiencing strong winds and heavy rains from Hurricane Melissa.
When will the effects of Hurricane Melissa be felt in Cuba?
The effects of Hurricane Melissa are expected to begin in eastern Cuba late Tuesday night or early Wednesday morning.
What precautions are recommended due to Hurricane Melissa?
It is recommended to exercise caution due to potential swells and rain bands that could cause significant rainfall. Staying informed about weather updates is crucial.
How strong are the winds associated with Hurricane Melissa?
Hurricane Melissa's winds are reported to be 220 kilometers per hour, with the most intense winds near the storm's center.