CubaHeadlines

Cuban Innovator Crafts Homemade Antenna to Stay Online During Hurricane Melissa

Friday, October 31, 2025 by Abigail Marquez

A Cuban TikTok user known as @elpelvico recently demonstrated his resourcefulness by maintaining an internet connection during the tumultuous night when Hurricane Melissa battered the city of Holguín with intense rain and winds.

In a viral video, the young man is seen humorously explaining amid gusts of wind how he created what he jokingly calls a "NASA-grade homemade antenna" to regain internet signal.

"Folks, let me tell you, I lost the signal, but with this NASA-style homemade invention, we're going to get it back," he exclaims, holding the makeshift device out of an open window in the pouring rain.

Despite the perilous weather conditions, the Cuban continues to broadcast live, humorously narrating the cyclone's progression: "We'll be live again soon, I know everyone wants to see the cyclone... but I've got everything tightly closed up front so the house doesn't blow up," he jokes.

The footage showcases the homemade antenna, crafted from household materials, as the young man makes efforts to sustain his online connection.

His ingenuity sparked numerous comments on social media, with many praising his creativity and the resilience of Cubans to "make do" even under the most challenging circumstances.

Staying Connected During Hurricanes: Cuban Ingenuity

How did @elpelvico manage to stay connected during Hurricane Melissa?

@elpelvico crafted a homemade antenna using household materials, allowing him to regain internet connection despite the severe weather conditions caused by Hurricane Melissa.

What was the reaction to the homemade antenna video on social media?

The video went viral, with many people applauding @elpelvico's creativity and the Cuban spirit of resilience, showcasing the ability to adapt and find solutions even in dire situations.

© CubaHeadlines 2025