The Cuban Institute of Meteorology has issued a televised update detailing the anticipated impact of Hurricane Melissa, a highly dangerous system that continues to gain strength as it approaches the southern coast of the island's eastern region.
According to the latest report from the Weather Forecast Center (INSMET), the hurricane is on a path that will directly affect the provinces of Granma, Holguín, and Santiago de Cuba in the early hours of Wednesday, October 29.
A Potent and Menacing Storm
Melissa has intensified into an extremely powerful hurricane, with maximum sustained winds reaching 174 mph and gusts surpassing 186 mph, classifying it as a major hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson scale.
The central pressure continues to drop steadily and is currently measured at 901 hPa, highlighting its destructive capabilities and ongoing intensification.
Recently, the system has shifted slightly north-northeast, moving at a speed of 4 mph. Its center is positioned at 17.3 degrees north latitude and 78.3 degrees west longitude, placing it 105 miles west-southwest of Kingston, Jamaica, 177 miles south-southwest of Cabo Cruz, and 248 miles southwest of Santiago de Cuba.
A Broad and Dangerous Cyclonic Structure
Hurricane Melissa exhibits a wide field of influence. Hurricane-force winds extend 28 miles from the eye, while tropical storm-force winds reach out 196 miles.
Furthermore, the storm brings a large swath of rain affecting Haiti, eastern Cuba, and Jamaica, where strong winds and heavy rainfall are significant.
INSMET reports that Melissa is now interacting with a pre-existing trough, a meteorological condition previously identified as crucial for the storm's recurvature towards eastern Cuba. This interaction has been pivotal in confirming the predicted path.
Critical Overnight Impact on Cuba
The expected track already skims Jamaica, and the hurricane's center is forecasted to pass over the island this Tuesday morning, which could lead to some fluctuations in its intensity.
Cuban meteorological authorities caution that the direct impact on the eastern region will occur during the early hours of Wednesday. Projections suggest Melissa will strike Cuban soil as a major hurricane, potentially causing severe damage, especially in the southeastern areas.
"The positive news is that by Wednesday afternoon, it will begin moving away from Cuba," states the Forecast Center's communication. However, the effects of strong winds and persistent rainfall will linger for several hours, even after the storm's center moves away.
Heavy Rainfall and Extreme Sea Conditions
Rainfall is expected to be particularly aggressive, with significant accumulations anticipated between Tuesday and Wednesday morning. Some areas, especially in mountainous and coastal regions of Granma, Holguín, and Santiago de Cuba, could see over 400 millimeters of rain.
Regarding sea conditions, waves up to 13 feet are forecasted to batter the southeastern coast from the early afternoon. In more exposed regions of Granma, waves might reach heights of up to 23 feet.
Urgent Call for Caution and Preparedness
Cuban authorities urge residents, especially in the eastern provinces, to stay informed through official updates, adhere to civil protection measures, and cooperate with ongoing preventive evacuations in high-risk areas.
Hurricane Melissa poses a serious and immediate threat, with risks compounded by its intensity and slow movement, which could extend adverse effects over the national territory.
The Meteorology Institute will continue to provide regular updates as the situation develops.
FAQs about Hurricane Melissa's Impact on Cuba
What areas in Cuba are most at risk from Hurricane Melissa?
The provinces of Granma, Holguín, and Santiago de Cuba are expected to face the most direct impact from Hurricane Melissa.
How strong is Hurricane Melissa?
Hurricane Melissa has reached maximum sustained winds of 174 mph, with gusts over 186 mph, classifying it as a major hurricane.
What are the expected weather conditions in Cuba due to Hurricane Melissa?
Heavy rainfall, strong winds, and high waves are expected, with significant rain accumulation and sea waves reaching up to 23 feet in some areas.