The US Embassy in Havana has one alert again As Tropical Storm Melissa continues to strengthen in the Caribbean, forecasters warn it could become a major hurricane within days.
According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), Melissa is currently moving northwest over the central Caribbean Sea and is expected to begin rapid intensification within the next 24 hours. The storm is expected to reach hurricane status on Saturday, October 25 and could develop into a Category 4 hurricane early next week.
Heavy rains, strong winds and coastal flooding are expected in parts of eastern and southeastern Cuba in the coming days. Meteorologists warn that the risk of damaging winds and storm surges is increasing, especially for low-lying coastal areas.
The embassy urges U.S. citizens and residents of Cuba to closely monitor local weather updates and follow instructions from civil defense authorities. Travelers are advised to check flight status with their airline as significant disruptions may occur.
Recommended precautions include:
- Monitor official Cuban and US weather sources, including the National Hurricane Center.
- Follow local civil defense instructions and be prepared to take shelter if conditions deteriorate.
- Keep friends and family informed of your whereabouts.
- Please contact your airline for any flight changes or cancellations.
- U.S. citizens in need of emergency assistance may contact the embassy at +53 (7) 839-4100.
On Friday afternoon, Tropical Storm Melissa continues to hover over warm Caribbean waters, a factor expected to fuel its rapid intensification as it heads toward Cuba and possibly the Bahamas.
For official updates, visit the National Hurricane Center.
