On Wednesday, Guantánamo awoke to the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, battered by powerful winds, relentless rain, and significant property damage as the storm swept through eastern Cuba.
Photos from various parts of the city reveal empty streets, fallen branches and power lines, alongside visible damage to homes and government buildings. The persistent howl of the wind and the sight of bent trees capture the storm's intensity, which, although moving northeast, continues to affect the province.
According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), as of 8:00 a.m., Melissa was positioned north of Guantánamo, with sustained winds reaching 165 km/h and even stronger gusts. The system, having crossed eastern Cuba overnight, left a trail of flooding, swollen rivers, and landslides in the Sierra Cristal area and Baracoa municipality.
In the provincial capital, local reports confirm partial roof collapses, shattered windows, and fallen trees, particularly in the neighborhoods of San Justo, La Loma del Chivo, and the central area, where gusts approached 120 km/h.
Although Melissa is heading towards the Atlantic, Cuba's Institute of Meteorology (INSMET) has warned that rain will persist throughout the day in Guantánamo and Holguín, posing a threat of coastal and river flooding.
Residents remain vigilant, aware that the cyclone's effects reach far beyond its eye, and that eastern Cuba continues to be the focal point of the storm's humanitarian and structural impact.
Understanding Hurricane Melissa's Impact on Guantánamo
What damages did Hurricane Melissa cause in Guantánamo?
Hurricane Melissa caused significant damage to infrastructure in Guantánamo, including fallen trees, broken windows, and partial roof collapses. It also led to flooding and landslides in surrounding areas.
How did the local authorities respond to the hurricane?
Local authorities, along with meteorological agencies, have issued warnings and are monitoring the situation closely to manage the ongoing risks of flooding and wind damage.