Hurricane Melissa has slammed into Cuba with devastating force, bringing catastrophic winds and life-threatening flooding to the island nation just days after reducing Jamaica to a disaster area.
From Jamaica to Cuba: A Trail of Destruction
The powerful Category 3 hurricane made landfall on Cuba's southern coast near Santiago de Cuba with sustained winds reaching 125mph (201km/h). The storm surge has been described as "extremely dangerous" by meteorological authorities, with waves crashing over coastal defences and flooding low-lying areas.
In Jamaica, the situation remains dire with at least one confirmed fatality and widespread destruction. Prime Minister Andrew Holness has declared the entire island a disaster area, stating that the damage is "far more severe than we initially anticipated."
Critical Infrastructure Crippled
The hurricane's impact has been catastrophic across both nations:
- Widespread power outages affecting millions of residents
- Critical damage to roads, bridges, and communication networks
- Hospitals operating on emergency backup generators
- Substantial agricultural losses, particularly to coffee and banana crops
Emergency Response Mobilised
International aid organisations have begun coordinating relief efforts, though access remains challenging due to damaged infrastructure. The Red Cross has activated its emergency response teams across the region.
Meteorological warnings remain in effect for continued heavy rainfall, with predictions of up to 25 inches in some areas, raising concerns about potentially deadly landslides and flash flooding.
Regional Impact and Forecast
While the hurricane is expected to gradually weaken as it moves over Cuba, forecasters warn that it could regain strength as it enters the Bahamas. Residents in Florida are being advised to monitor the storm's progress closely.
The Caribbean region continues to face an increasingly severe hurricane season, with scientists noting that climate change is contributing to more intense and destructive storms.
