In the province of Holguín, the coastal town of Gibara experienced a dramatic surge of waves reaching several meters high following the passage of Hurricane Melissa.
Gibaravisión, the local television station, reported that while the hurricane caused material damage to homes, workplaces, and schools, there were fortunately no casualties. Authorities urged residents to remain disciplined and calm during this time.
At 11:00 a.m., Hurricane Melissa, still a Category 2 storm, was located approximately 35 kilometers north of Punta Lucrecia in Holguín. It sustained maximum winds of 155 km/h while moving northeast at 22 km/h.
Despite its distance, the storm continued to produce extensive showers and rainfall over eastern Cuba, perpetuating the intense surf along the northern coast, including Gibara.
Coastal Hazards and Continued Storm Impacts
The maritime conditions turned particularly hazardous along Holguín's coastal strip. Wave heights fluctuated between 4 and 6 meters, with some areas potentially seeing peaks up to 7 meters along the northern coasts of Holguín and Las Tunas. These conditions led to moderate to severe coastal flooding in low-lying areas.
Officials warned that while the surges were expected to subside along the southeastern coast, the northern areas would continue to experience rough seas for several more hours.
Significant Rainfall and Atmospheric Instability
The atmospheric instability persisted, bringing clusters of rain and thunderstorms, particularly affecting Holguín, Santiago de Cuba, and Guantánamo.
The National Institute of Hydraulic Resources' network of rain gauges recorded remarkable rainfall levels: around 69 stations exceeded 100 millimeters, with seven potentially surpassing 300 millimeters, highlighting the intense precipitation associated with Melissa.
As the system rapidly moved northeast, forecasts suggested that the remaining moisture would continue to fuel showers in the country's eastern regions throughout the day.
Meanwhile, in Gibara, authorities maintained close monitoring of the residual waves and their impact on coastal infrastructure and neighborhoods. They emphasized the importance of avoiding exposure to the sea and strictly following civil protection guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions about Hurricane Melissa's Impact on Gibara
What was the impact of Hurricane Melissa on Gibara?
Hurricane Melissa caused significant wave surges and material damage to homes, workplaces, and schools in Gibara, though no casualties were reported.
How high did the waves reach in Gibara?
Wave heights in Gibara reached between 4 and 6 meters, with some areas potentially seeing peaks of up to 7 meters.
What measures did authorities take in response to the hurricane?
Authorities urged residents to remain calm and disciplined, avoid exposure to the sea, and adhere to civil protection directives.