On October 25, Cuba's Civil Defense issued a series of urgent directives to prepare for the impending impact of Hurricane Melissa. The powerful storm is expected to sweep through the eastern region of the island, arriving between Tuesday night and early Wednesday morning.
The national meeting was led by General Ramón Pardo Guerra, head of the National Civil Defense Staff. A follow-up control meeting took place on Sunday, involving Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, who emphasized the importance of acting swiftly to reduce human and material losses.
"Even though Hurricane Melissa's path might shift, forecast models agree it will strike the southeastern part of our country with significant intensity. We urge citizens to strictly follow the directives issued by local authorities," one Facebook communication stated.
Critical Measures for Eastern Provinces
Among the key directives are those aimed at safeguarding the population, vital assets, and essential resources, focusing particularly on the eastern provinces currently under alert status.
Immediate evacuation is required for those living in flood-prone areas, coastal regions, riverbanks, dams, and low-lying areas susceptible to landslides. Vulnerable populations, such as the elderly living alone, pregnant women, and individuals with disabilities, must be protected.
Primary healthcare services must be secured, especially in hospitals, clinics, and health offices, along with epidemiological monitoring to prevent outbreaks after the hurricane's passage. Communication infrastructure, including cellphone charging stations and lighting equipment like rechargeable lamps and flashlights, should be operational during extended power outages.
Continuous communication with the public via radio, television, local networks, and messaging is essential to disseminate information about measures, warnings, and guidance from local authorities. Personal belongings and pets, as well as material resources in workplaces and state entities, should be safeguarded.
Preparations for Agricultural and Resource Protection
Harvesting and storing agricultural products before the storm hits are crucial to prevent losses. Livestock should be moved to safe, elevated areas, and fishing vessels and equipment should be protected. Ensuring food processing centers operate and evacuation centers are well-prepared is a priority.
Water, basic food supplies, and fuel must be stockpiled in areas likely to be affected. Additionally, there should be increased clearing of debris, solid waste, drains, ditches, and storm drains to prevent blockages and facilitate drainage during heavy rains.
Plans for recovery should be organized with sanitation, electricity, and water supply brigades ready for action. Support offices should be established to assist affected populations after the meteorological event.
Hurricane Melissa's Path and Potential Dangers
During an extended meeting of the National Defense Council, Dr. Celso Pazos Alberdi, director general of the Meteorological Institute, reported that forecast models predict Hurricane Melissa will make landfall between Granma and Santiago de Cuba, or possibly Guantánamo, on Tuesday afternoon and exit northward by Wednesday morning between Holguín and Guantánamo.
Heavy rainfall of 200 to 400 millimeters is anticipated in less than 48 hours, with higher amounts in mountainous areas, along with sea surges and coastal flooding both on the southern coast upon entry and the northern coast upon exit.
General Pardo Guerra confirmed that the established phases have been implemented timely. Evacuations of several hundred people, including tourists, have already occurred in Guantánamo, Santiago de Cuba, and Holguín due to the ongoing rains affecting the region.
In Granma, authorities have identified over 110,000 people needing protection, which equates to 15% of the province's population. A total of 224 evacuation centers have been set up, with special provisions for pregnant women in vulnerable areas.
Santiago de Cuba plans to safeguard 258,573 individuals, nearly 25% of its local population. Major reservoirs are discharging or prepared to do so, and efforts to protect the coffee harvest are being intensified.
Holguín's Civil Defense plans involve evacuating 305,530 residents, while Guantánamo aims to relocate 30% of its population, about 140,000 people. Both provinces have activated electrical and civilian brigades to handle the recovery phase.
In Las Tunas, plans are in place to evacuate approximately 72,000 individuals and protect solar photovoltaic parks, focusing on preserving material resources.
FAQs on Hurricane Melissa's Impact on Cuba
What measures are being taken to protect Cuba from Hurricane Melissa?
Cuba's Civil Defense has issued urgent evacuation orders for flood-prone areas, prioritized healthcare services, established communication plans, and ensured the protection of personal and material resources.
Where is Hurricane Melissa expected to make landfall?
Hurricane Melissa is anticipated to make landfall between the provinces of Granma and Santiago de Cuba, or possibly Guantánamo, moving northward by Wednesday morning.
How many people are being evacuated in response to Hurricane Melissa?
In total, several hundred people have been evacuated, with specific numbers including 110,000 in Granma, 258,573 in Santiago de Cuba, 305,530 in Holguín, and 140,000 in Guantánamo.
What risks does Hurricane Melissa pose to Cuba?
The hurricane is expected to bring heavy rains, coastal flooding, and sea surges, with rainfalls between 200 and 400 millimeters anticipated in less than 48 hours, especially in mountainous regions.