summary of Hurricane Melissa‘s Threat to Cuba (October 28, 2024)
Here’s a breakdown of the key information from the provided text regarding Hurricane Melissa and its expected impact on Cuba:
Current status & Forecast:
* Intense Hurricane: Melissa is currently a hurricane with tropical storm force winds extending up to 315 kilometers.
* Recurving Path: The hurricane is being influenced by a pre-existing trough, causing it to recurve towards eastern Cuba as predicted.
* Jamaica Impact: The centre is expected to pass over Jamaica Tuesday morning, potentially causing fluctuations in intensity.
* Cuba Impact – critical Time: The direct impact on eastern Cuba is forecast for the early hours of Wednesday. It’s expected to hit as a highly intense hurricane.
* Moving Away Wednesday Afternoon: The center will move away from Cuba by Wednesday afternoon, but effects will linger.
Expected Impacts on Cuba:
* Severe Impact - Southeast: The southeast region of Cuba is expected to experience the most severe impact.
* Heavy Rainfall: Accumulated rainfall could exceed 400 millimeters in mountainous and coastal areas of Granma, Holguín, and Santiago de Cuba between Tuesday and Wednesday morning.
* Storm Surge: Waves of up to four meters are expected on the southeastern coast,potentially reaching seven meters in exposed areas of Granma.
* Strong Winds: Intensifying winds, potentially exceeding tropical storm thresholds, are expected in the eastern region, especially at night.
Tuesday’s Weather Forecast (October 28th):
* East Cuba: Cloudy with showers, rain, and isolated thunderstorms, becoming stronger and more intense in the afternoon.
* rest of Cuba: Partially cloudy with occasional clouds and isolated rain.
* Temperatures: 30-33°C in the west and center,26-29°C in the east (decreasing with rain). Nighttime lows 21-24°C.
* Winds: Northeast to east, 10-25 km/h, intensifying to 35-50 km/h in the east with higher gusts.
* Seas: Strong swells in the southeast, swells on the north coast of the east, waves on the south coast, and calm seas on the central north coast.
authorities’ Response & Warnings:
* Caution & Monitoring: Cuban authorities are urging the population, especially in eastern provinces, to stay informed, comply with civil protection measures, and cooperate with evacuations.
* Serious & Imminent Threat: Melissa is considered a serious and imminent threat due to its intensity and slow movement.
In short, Hurricane Melissa poses a significant threat to eastern Cuba with the potential for devastating rainfall, storm surge, and strong winds. Residents are urged to heed warnings and prepare for impact.
