Overview
Cuba is grappling with substantial damage following the impact of Hurricane ‘Melissa’, one of the most powerful storms ever recorded in the Atlantic. The hurricane has caused significant destruction, particularly in Cuba’s eastern region, where approximately 735,000 people have been evacuated.
Cuban President’s Response
President Miguel Díaz-Canel confirmed that Cuba experienced a “complex morning” due to Hurricane ‘Melissa’. He stated on social media that he has been in constant contact with regional leaders and assured the public that the situation remains under control. Díaz-Canel emphasized that preparations for the worst-case scenario have been effective.
The president urged citizens to remain vigilant, disciplined, and stay protected as the hurricane continues to affect Cuba. Once conditions improve, the government will initiate a recovery plan, pending an assessment of the damage.
Hurricane ‘Melissa’, which claimed several lives in Jamaica and reached Category 5 on the Saffir-Simpson scale, is moving through Cuba with maximum sustained winds of 165 kilometers per hour. The National Hurricane Center in the United States predicts that the hurricane will approach the Bahamas in the coming hours, with alerts still active for both the Bahamas and Haiti.
United Nations’ Response
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed “serious concern” over the devastation caused by Hurricane ‘Melissa’, one of the most powerful hurricanes ever recorded in the Atlantic. Guterres highlighted the storm’s potential for widespread destruction across various countries in the region.
Guterres conveyed his solidarity with the affected citizens and governments, emphasizing the full support of UN agencies in responding to the emergency. The organization has already unlocked $4 million from the emergency fund for an initial response in Haiti and Cuba, with the possibility of issuing specific appeals for additional funding.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the current situation in Cuba due to Hurricane ‘Melissa’? Cuba is facing significant damage, particularly in its eastern region. Approximately 735,000 people have been evacuated, and the hurricane continues to impact the island.
- How has the Cuban government responded to the crisis? President Miguel Díaz-Canel has been in constant contact with regional leaders, ensuring the situation remains under control. The government is prepared for the worst-case scenario and will initiate a recovery plan once conditions improve.
- What is the international community’s response to Hurricane ‘Melissa’? United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed serious concern over the devastation. The UN has unlocked $4 million from its emergency fund for an initial response in Haiti and Cuba, with the possibility of seeking additional funding.
