Amidst the looming threat of Hurricane Melissa, local teams in the Niquero municipality of Granma province have intensified their efforts to clear debris and trim trees, preparing for the storm expected to hit on Tuesday night.
According to a report aired by CNC TV Granma, local authorities have mobilized five trucks to address smaller dump sites. Additionally, the Municipal Defense Council has been actively surveying the most vulnerable areas to minimize potential damage.
Among the "protective" measures taken was the tying down of the Granma yacht replica, located at the National Monument of Las Coloradas. This site commemorates the historic landing of Fidel Castro and his expedition in 1956.
Once the image of the secured replica surfaced, it quickly became the subject of ridicule and ironic commentary on social media. This reaction was fueled by Cuban journalist Rolando Nápoles, based in Miami, who shared a segment of the news report.
Hundreds of users responded with sarcasm and frustration, viewing the action as a symbol of Cuba's economic and social collapse, overshadowed by more pressing issues. Some comments humorously urged the hurricane to "take both the replica and the original," while others jested about also whisking away "the stone" in Santiago de Cuba, a nod to Fidel Castro's tomb.
"With so many issues to solve, and they're tying down that canoe, a symbol of misfortune," one user remarked. Others criticized the authorities for prioritizing monument protection over the safety of homes and essential services: "Hopefully it takes it away, it's a bad memory," echoed a widely shared sentiment.
The jokes were often tinged with political critique: "Tie down the island, or it might end up in Florida," one comment read, while others viewed the scene as a metaphor for the country’s plight: "That was the yacht that set this country adrift."
This blend of humor and anger highlights a widespread sense of societal disillusionment and the gap between official narratives and daily realities. In eastern Cuba, where Melissa is expected to hit hardest, many communities live in dilapidated housing, endure constant power outages, and lack the resources to withstand such a severe weather event.
Meanwhile, Hurricane Melissa continues to gain strength in the Caribbean, with forecasts predicting storm surges, winds exceeding 200 km/h, and heavy rains that could lead to flooding in the provinces of Granma, Santiago de Cuba, Guantánamo, and Holguín.
As authorities emphasize the need for vigilance, the nation remains in darkness due to persistent power cuts and an ongoing energy crisis, complicating communication and public preparedness.
Hurricane Melissa's Impact and Public Reaction
What measures are being taken in Cuba to prepare for Hurricane Melissa?
Local teams in Granma province are clearing debris and trimming trees, while the Municipal Defense Council is assessing vulnerable areas. They have also tied down the Granma yacht replica as a protective measure.
How have social media users reacted to the tying down of the Granma yacht replica?
Social media reacted with sarcasm and criticism, with many seeing it as a symbol of Cuba's broader economic and social issues and expressing frustrations over misplaced priorities.
What are the expected impacts of Hurricane Melissa on Cuba?
Hurricane Melissa is expected to bring storm surges, winds over 200 km/h, and heavy rains, potentially causing flooding in Granma, Santiago de Cuba, Guantánamo, and Holguín provinces.