Bangkok: Hurricane Melissa is set to make landfall in Cuba, with authorities on high alert as the powerful storm approaches. The hurricane, which has already caused significant destruction in Jamaica, is expected to hit near Santiago de Cuba, Cuba’s second-largest city, later today. Precautionary measures have been swiftly implemented, including the evacuation of approximately half a million residents from the eastern coastal areas to higher ground due to potential flooding and landslides.
According to Thai News Agency, Hurricane Melissa’s impact on Jamaica was severe, with the storm hitting New Hope, a southwestern town, with Category 5 winds reaching 295 kilometers per hour. This resulted in heavy rain, flooding, and widespread power outages affecting over half a million people. The storm also inflicted damage on critical infrastructure, including hospitals and homes, and has been blamed for the deaths of at least three individuals. The death toll is feared to increase as recovery efforts continue.
Jamaica, which had never before been directly struck by a Category 4 or Category 5 hurricane, is grappling with the aftermath. The Jamaican government has issued an appeal for international aid to assist in recovery efforts. The International Red Cross has reported that 1.5 million Jamaicans have been impacted by the storm. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump has stated that he is closely monitoring the situation and ready to provide support to Jamaica if necessary.