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Tropical storm Melissa has the residents of eastern Cuba on edge as the country faces one of its worst crises in recent years, with power outages lasting over 18 hours a day, communication breakdowns, and a lack of official information about the weather phenomenon.
On the social media of CiberCuba, it is evident how desperation is growing among those who remain without electricity and lack access to the internet or telephone services on the island.
"We are without electricity in Granma, experiencing more than 18 hours daily without power, and when it does come back, it only lasts two or three hours. This way, we can't find out anything about the storm," wrote an internet user.
Others are calling for sensitivity and urgent measures due to the impossibility of communicating with their families.
"Neither the government nor ETECSA are promoting recharge options for Cubans. We have no options for recharging from abroad. Have a heart and be aware, we lack medications and food."
The fear of Melissa's approach brings back memories of Hurricane Sandy, which devastated the region over a decade ago.
"Santiago de Cuba seems like it’s going to face another bad experience like when Sandy hit, but now we don’t have Expósito on our side," said a user who is complaining about the lack of leadership from the authorities.
The population perceives a complete government inaction. “Cuba in the dark, a weather event looming, and there is no action from the government to restore electricity or guarantee us food.”
Insecurity is compounded by food scarcity. "Everyone talks about the current situation, but where is the food, which is essential to endure this at home?"
Without information or resources, eastern Cuba faces another storm amid abandonment and official silence.
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