Sandro Castro took to his social media channels to express solidarity with the eastern provinces of Cuba, severely impacted by the destructive winds and heavy flooding brought by Hurricane Melissa.
In an Instagram story, he shared the phrase “Stay strong, Cuba. I hate Melissa” alongside a video where he voiced his concern over the storm's damage and offered words of encouragement: “Melissa is so dangerous she's even left us without power, but I didn’t expect her to be this destructive. I just want to send a strong message of support and solidarity to the eastern provinces and also to Jamaica. Count on me for whatever is necessary. Now, I'm off to have some tequila with Rubierón, who needs to keep us updated around the clock.”
The grandson of Fidel Castro has been in the spotlight for controversial social media appearances recently. Just a few days ago, he mocked Miguel Díaz-Canel and the economic crisis with a video parodying the phrase “lemonade is the foundation of everything” by saying, “the foundation cannot lack: some little lemons.”
He also blamed the independent media outlet El Toque for the increase in the dollar's value on the informal market and suggested forming a “business association” to combat inflation. Furthermore, he stirred controversy by liking a post that depicted his grandfather Fidel Castro as “lazy and dependent,” which many saw as a symbolic distancing from his family's legacy.
This time, despite maintaining his usual tone, Sandro offered empathy and support to those affected by the hurricane in both Cuba and Jamaica.
Hurricane Melissa's Impact on Eastern Cuba
Hurricane Melissa made landfall in Cuba early Wednesday as a formidable Category 3 cyclone with maximum sustained winds of 121 mph (195 km/h) and a minimum central pressure of 952 mb, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC).
The storm struck near the town of Chivirico in the municipality of Guamá, Santiago de Cuba, specifically at El Francés beach. It has caused heavy rainfall, flooding, power outages, and severe infrastructure damage, as reported by the Civil Defense and local testimonies.
The provinces of Granma, Santiago de Cuba, Guantánamo, Holguín, and Las Tunas remain under the cyclone's influence, facing reports of building collapses, fallen trees, power interruptions, and landslides. The Civil Defense keeps the cyclone alarm phase active, urging residents to stay in shelters and safe areas.
Hurricane-force winds extend up to 28 miles (45 km) from the center of the system, while tropical storm winds reach up to 196 miles (315 km), causing storm surges of 8 to 12 feet along the southeastern coast. Hurricane Melissa continues its forceful passage across Cuba, leaving behind floods, collapses, and isolated communities.
Santiago de Cuba is among the most impacted areas, with witnesses reporting “strong winds, lots of water, flooding, and collapsed houses,” along with partial building collapses and widespread power outages. In Holguín and Las Tunas, intense rains and violent gusts have resulted in blackouts and material damage. Granma and Guantánamo have also experienced impacts, although weather conditions are gradually improving.
Before reaching Cuba, Melissa caused significant flooding and landslides in Jamaica, leaving a trail of destruction and material losses. The system is expected to continue its northeastern path, potentially affecting the Bahamas and Bermuda in the coming hours.
Common Questions about Hurricane Melissa's Impact
What category was Hurricane Melissa when it hit Cuba?
Hurricane Melissa was a Category 3 storm when it made landfall in Cuba.
Which areas in Cuba were most affected by the hurricane?
The provinces of Granma, Santiago de Cuba, Guantánamo, Holguín, and Las Tunas were significantly affected, with Santiago de Cuba being one of the hardest hit areas.
How did Sandro Castro respond to the hurricane's impact?
Sandro Castro expressed his concern and solidarity with the affected regions through a social media post, offering his support to both Cuba and Jamaica.
What were the effects of Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica?
In Jamaica, Hurricane Melissa caused severe flooding and landslides, resulting in significant destruction and material losses.