As Hurricane Melissa’s approach drives rising river levels and triggers landslides in Cuba’s eastern provinces, the town of El Cobre in Santiago — where 17 people remain stranded — reports no casualties, confirmed Dr. Lionnis Franco, one of those affected. The hurricane is expected to make landfall at Santiago de Cuba.

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“We are safe and trying to stay calm,” said the 26-year-old rheumatologist, noting that although the group includes people with asthma and high blood pressure, everyone is in good health. He also mentioned that there are two young children and five elderly adults among them.

“Rescuers reached the town quickly and have been in contact with us, but they haven’t been able to get through because the road is blocked and vehicles cannot pass. There’s no need to risk anyone’s life. They are doing everything they can,” he added.

After midnight, sustained winds reached 215 km/h, classifying Melissa as a Category 4 hurricane.

Ramón Pardo Guerra, Chief of the National Civil Defense Staff, reported that more than 207,000 families have been sheltered, including residents of neighborhoods that were not previously evacuated, but the severity of this hurricane made it necessary.

Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel said the response to the meteorological phenomenon has been timely and precise, ensuring that no one is left unprotected. He also warned that those evacuated should not return to their homes until the danger has fully passed.

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