The Cuban government announced on Monday, October 27, the activation of multiple free communication channels by the Cuban Telecommunications Company (Etecsa) – the only one in the country – to keep the population informed as Hurricane Melissa approaches the eastern region of the country.

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According to the Office of the Presidency, Etecsa has implemented a contingency plan that prioritizes access to essential information on the hurricane’s path and development, as part of the island’s Civil Defense system.

Among the measures, mobile users can now access the official websites of the Institute of Meteorology (www.insmet.cu) and Radio Rebelde (www.radiorebelde.cu) without consuming data. The Cubadebate mobile app is also included in this free-access category.

In addition, free telephone lines have been made available for both landline and mobile users. By dialing 800 73565, citizens can listen live to Radio Reloj, while Radio Rebelde is accessible through 800 77232.

To ensure access to local information, landline users can tune in to their provincial radio station free of charge by dialing 188 99.

Etecsa has also activated an SMS alert service. Mobile users can send the word HURACAN (Hurricane) to the short code 2266 to receive up-to-date text alerts about the hurricane’s position and other key details.

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