Related videos:
The United States Embassy in Havana issued an urgent statement this weekend warning its citizens about the imminent dangers associated with Hurricane Melissa's passage through eastern Cuba.
The warning highlights the seriousness of the weather phenomenon and recommends making immediate decisions for evacuation or preparing to take shelter.
A powerful hurricane on a path toward the east of Cuba
According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), the system was officially classified as a hurricane on Saturday, October 25, and was elevated to "major hurricane" status on Sunday, October 26, 2025. Currently, Melissa is located south of Jamaica, but it is expected to cross eastern Cuba between Tuesday and Wednesday.
The embassy warns that "even before the arrival of the hurricane, there is an increasing risk of significant storm, damaging winds, and heavy rain," which poses a considerable danger to the eastern provinces of the country.
Cuban authorities have issued hurricane alerts and warnings for Granma, Santiago de Cuba, Guantánamo, and Holguín.
Elevated risks due to structural vulnerability
In addition to the destructive power of the hurricane itself, the U.S. diplomatic mission points out the deterioration of infrastructure in the region as an exacerbating factor for the emergency response.
"The deterioration of infrastructure in these provinces, including an already fragile electrical grid and a limited capacity to provide basic goods and services, may further inhibit the rapid health and emergency response," the statement specifies.
The situation is especially critical when considering the risk of flash floods and landslides, which could become deadly in areas that are difficult to access or with collapsed drainage systems.
Urgent recommendation: Evacuate if possible
The embassy has made a direct appeal to U.S. citizens in Cuba: “This is a dangerous storm. U.S. citizens potentially in the path of the hurricane need to decide whether to leave now while flights are still available, or be prepared to shelter in place.”
The recommendation includes considering "the lack of health and emergency infrastructure in the region in its preparations."
In light of potential flight interruptions, travelers are urged to check the status of their itineraries directly with the airlines, as it is likely that air services will experience significant cancellations or delays.
Recommended actions by the embassy
The U.S. embassy has published a list of immediate measures for its citizens:
-Follow the instructions of local civil defense authorities and monitor local media.
-Prepare to take refuge if it is not possible to evacuate safely.
-Check with the airlines regarding the status of flights, as they may be affected.
-Maintain contact with family and friends through phone calls, text messages, or social media.
Call the embassy duty officer at +(53) (7) 839-4100 in case of emergency.
Additionally, it is important to stay informed through reliable channels, including the National Hurricane Center of the United States.
Although weather projections indicate eastern Cuba as the primary impact area, the statement emphasizes that "the path of a hurricane can change rapidly," making it essential to closely monitor its development and make proactive decisions.
The United States Embassy will continue to provide emergency consular services and has its phone line active to assist its citizens during this crisis.
Filed under: