Hurricane Melissa Batters Cuba with Torrential Flooding After Leaving Trail of Destruction in Jamaica

Hurricane Melissa, now a powerful Category 4 storm, has unleashed severe flooding and widespread damage across Cuba, just days after devastating parts of Jamaica with destructive winds and torrential rain.

The storm made landfall along Cuba’s southern coast early this morning, bringing intense rainfall, storm surges, and hurricane-force winds that have left thousands without power. Streets in several provinces, including Santiago de Cuba and Granma, have turned into rivers as emergency crews rush to evacuate residents trapped in flooded neighborhoods.

Authorities declared a state of emergency in multiple regions, warning that conditions could worsen as the storm continues to move northwest toward the Florida Straits. Early reports indicate significant damage to infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and communication networks, while coastal areas face the threat of landslides and rising tides.

In Jamaica, where Melissa struck earlier this week, recovery efforts are still underway. The hurricane left a trail of destruction across the island — homes were flattened, farmlands destroyed, and power lines brought down, leaving large parts of the country in darkness. Officials there described the storm as one of the most powerful to hit the island in decades.

Cuban meteorologists say the storm’s strength has slightly weakened as it moved inland but remains extremely dangerous due to the risk of flash floods and mudslides. More than 200,000 people have reportedly been relocated to temporary shelters, and hospitals are operating under emergency protocols.

Residents across affected areas have been urged to stay indoors, avoid flooded roads, and follow official guidance as rescue operations continue. With heavy rain expected to persist for the next 24 hours, Cuban authorities are preparing for what could become one of the country’s most severe weather events in recent years.

As Hurricane Melissa moves away from Cuba later this week, forecasters warn that the storm could regain strength over open waters, potentially threatening parts of the Bahamas and southern Florida next.

Author: M.J