Hurricane Melissa Makes Second Landfall in Cuba as Category 3 Storm

Hurricane Melissa's Impact on Cuba

• 🌀 Hurricane Melissa made its second landfall in Cuba this morning at 3:10 AM on the southeastern coast in Santiago de Cuba.
• ⚠️ Although weakened to a Category 3 storm, it is still extremely dangerous, packing 120 mph winds and an expected 15 to 25 inches of rain.
• 🏠 Over 735,000 people have been evacuated due to the significant threat of flash flooding, particularly in coastal and mountainous communities.

Devastation in Jamaica

• ⛈️ Prior to hitting Cuba, Hurricane Melissa caused severe damage in Jamaica, tearing off roofs and damaging homes and buildings.
• 🌊 Flooding was so severe in St. Elizabeth that officials declared it underwater, impacting the island's agricultural "breadbasket."
• 🏥 Four hospitals were damaged, and over half a million people were left without power.
• ✈️ The hurricane also damaged the two main airports, with the Jamaican government estimating it will take weeks for normal air travel to resume for tourists.

Ongoing Challenges for Cuba

• ⚡ The storm's impact on Cuba comes as the island is already grappling with power shortages, economic instability, and a dengue outbreak.
• 📉 The heavy rain and damage from Melissa could exacerbate these existing difficulties.