Hurricane Melissa leaves Jamaica and heads for Cuba: at least 7 dead, over 750 thousand evacuated and patients fleeing hospitals

Uragano Melissa

Hurricane Melissa hit Jamaica with an intensity never before recorded on the island, reaching Category 5 on the Saffir-Simpson scale. The impact caused widespread flooding, downed trees, destroyed power lines and piles of debris on roads.

Local authorities declared the island a state of emergency and hundreds of thousands of inhabitants were left without electricity. Damage to hospitals has forced the evacuation of dozens of patients, while communications infrastructure is severely compromised, with internet connectivity dropping to less than half normal levels.

Authorities working to clear the streets

The storm has already caused at least seven victims in the Caribbean, three in Jamaica, three in Haiti and one in the Dominican Republic. Many citizens were left isolated due to flooded roads and fallen trees. The Jamaican government is working to reopen airports and ensure the distribution of aid and supplies in the most affected areas with rescue teams busy clearing roads, restoring electricity and providing medical assistance. The National Hurricane Center warns that, despite decreasing to Category 3, Melissa remains an extremely dangerous hurricane, capable of generating landslides and flash flooding in any affected area.

750,000 people evacuated to Cuba

Meanwhile, Melissa landed in Cuba near Chivirico, in the province of Santiago de Cuba, with winds of over 190 km/h. Around 750,000 people were evacuated from their homes in anticipation of the impact. The Cuban authorities have put in place a maximum alert, inviting the population to seek shelter immediately. Heavy rains are expected especially in eastern and mountainous areas, increasing the risk of floods and landslides.

The hurricane towards the Bahamas and Bermuda

Subsequently, Hurricane Melissa will continue to move towards the Bahamas and Bermuda, where it is still expected to maintain its status as a powerful hurricane. Despite progressive weakening due to stronger vertical winds, colder waters and drier air, the cyclone poses a significant danger to all areas in its path. Local authorities and emergency services continue to monitor the situation, implementing preventive measures to protect lives and property.

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Chris Rivers

Chris Rivers

With over 15 years of experience in journalism and a deep-seated passion for environmental sustainability, I lead the editorial team at Green Technology Investments. My background in environmental science fuels my commitment to crafting insightful and impactful content. When I'm not penning articles, you can find me exploring national parks or tending to my organic garden.