HAVANA, CUBA – October 31, 2025 – Hurricane Melissa, a powerful Category 3 storm, made landfall in central Cuba early Wednesday, unleashing destructive winds and torrential rains across the island nation. Its arrival follows a devastating path through western Jamaica and a tragic impact in Haiti, where widespread flooding has claimed at least 20 lives. Meteorological services are now closely tracking the storm as it continues its eastward trajectory, with the Bahamas bracing for its imminent arrival.

The rapid intensification of Hurricane Melissa has presented a severe challenge to Caribbean nations, necessitating urgent evacuation efforts and humanitarian aid operations. Authorities across the region are mobilizing resources to respond to the extensive damage and unfolding humanitarian crisis.

Cuba Under Siege as Category 3 Storm Makes Landfall

Cuban meteorological agencies confirmed Hurricane Melissa's landfall in Matanzas province early Wednesday morning, with sustained winds estimated near 125 mph (200 km/h). Early reports indicate significant structural damage, widespread power outages, and coastal flooding in affected areas. Residents in vulnerable zones had been pre-emptively evacuated, with government agencies implementing their robust hurricane preparedness protocols. The Cuban government has declared a state of emergency in several provinces, and relief efforts are already underway to assess the full extent of the damage. Communication lines remain challenging in some of the hardest-hit regions.

"The immediate priority is the safety of our citizens and the rapid restoration of essential services," stated a spokesperson for Cuba's civil defense. "We are deploying all available resources to assist those affected and to begin the crucial process of recovery."

Devastation in Jamaica, Deadly Flooding in Haiti

Before reaching Cuba, Hurricane Melissa wreaked havoc across western Jamaica on Tuesday. Coastal towns and agricultural areas reported severe damage, including downed trees, damaged infrastructure, and significant agricultural losses. While official casualty figures from Jamaica are still being compiled, local authorities have warned residents to remain vigilant against lingering floodwaters and potential landslides.

The storm's impact on Haiti has been particularly catastrophic. Unrelenting rains triggered severe flooding and mudslides, leading to the overflow of several rivers. The Provisional Civil Protection Directorate (DPC) confirmed at least 20 fatalities, primarily in the southern regions, where homes and communities were inundated. Rescue teams are struggling to reach remote areas, compounding fears that the death toll could rise. International aid organizations are preparing to deploy assistance, but logistical challenges remain significant due to damaged roads and ongoing hazardous conditions.

"The situation in Haiti is dire," commented a representative from the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. "Many communities are isolated, and the immediate need for clean water, shelter, and medical supplies is critical."

Bahamas Prepares for Direct Hit

As Melissa departs Cuban airspace, its focus shifts towards the Bahamas, which lies directly in its projected path. The storm is expected to maintain its Category 3 strength, potentially bringing devastating winds, storm surge, and heavy rainfall to the archipelago. Emergency services in the Bahamas have issued red alerts, urging residents in low-lying and coastal areas to evacuate. Airports and seaports have been closed, and shelters opened across the islands.

Prime Minister of the Bahamas, Philip Davis, addressed the nation, emphasizing the seriousness of the approaching threat. "We are facing a formidable storm. I urge every Bahamian to heed the warnings, complete their preparations, and move to safety. Our collective resilience will be tested, but we will emerge stronger."

Hurricane Melissa underscores the increasing vulnerability of Caribbean nations to extreme weather events. Scientists continue to monitor the storm's progression, and regional governments remain on high alert as the full scope of its impact continues to unfold. Humanitarian efforts will be crucial in the coming days and weeks to support the affected populations in their long road to recovery.