Live Updates on Hurricane Melissa: Category 3 Storm Slams into Cuba
The Caribbean is currently bracing for the impact of Hurricane Melissa, a significant weather event that made landfall in Jamaica and Cuba. This Category 3 storm has caused extensive damage and raised safety concerns across the region.
Hurricane Melissa’s Impact on Jamaica
Hurricane Melissa struck Jamaica primarily from the southwest, producing sustained winds of up to 185 mph (295 km/h). This destruction is part of a worrying trend linked to rising ocean temperatures, which scientists say make storms more intense.
- Category: 3
- Wind Speeds: Up to 185 mph (295 km/h)
- Time of Landfall: 10 AM local time
- People Affected: Approximately 530,000 residents without power
- Emergency Shelters: Close to 15,000 residents took refuge in emergency shelters
Injuries and potential fatalities are expected as the storm passed through. Prime Minister Andrew Holness anticipates some loss of life, though currently, no confirmed casualties have been reported.
Travel Restrictions and Tourist Concerns
Due to the storm, all airports and ports in Jamaica closed, leaving around 25,000 tourists stranded, including about 8,000 British nationals. The Foreign Office updated travel advice but did not issue a formal warning prior to the storm’s arrival.
Concerned tourists were urged to register their whereabouts through a government portal. Some tourists like Carl Pheasant expressed frustrations over the lack of travel warnings before the storm.
Extent of Damage in Jamaica
Reports indicate substantial damage to infrastructure, with flooding causing road collapses and widespread outages. Areas along the coast faced severe flooding, with storm surges reaching up to 5.5 meters (18 feet).
Desmond McKenzie, local government minister, confirmed that more than 77% of customers of the Jamaica Public Service Company are without electricity. Many roads remain impassable, further complicating recovery efforts.
Cuba’s Preparedness and Response
As Hurricane Melissa approached Cuba, it diminished slightly to a Category 3 storm. Nonetheless, preparations were underway, with aid being mobilized for recovery.
- Chinese Aid: Family kits containing essential items are being sent from China to aid Cuban recovery efforts.
- Government Action: Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel has deployed specialist brigades to eastern provinces to assist in recovery.
Cuba’s Red Cross, supported by assistance from the Chinese Red Cross, is active in providing essential supplies. This cooperation symbolizes a broader trend of international support in the wake of natural disasters.
Evacuations and Safety Measures in the Bahamas
Evacuation orders were issued for several islands in the Bahamas as Hurricane Melissa’s path threatened the region. Authorities warned of severe flooding and potential storm surges reaching 8 feet. Minister Leon Lundy emphasized the urgency for residents in affected areas to seek shelter.
In summary, Hurricane Melissa has struck the Caribbean with considerable force, highlighting ongoing concerns about the growing intensity of storms linked to climate change. Affected nations are working tirelessly to address damage and ensure the safety of their citizens.
