U.S. Embassy Havana Issues Weather Warning Over Tropical Storm Melissa

The U.S. Embassy in Havana has issued a weather alert as Tropical Storm Melissa continues to strengthen in the Caribbean, with forecasters warning it could become a major hurricane within days.

According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), Melissa is currently moving northwest across the central Caribbean Sea and is expected to begin rapid intensification within the next 24 hours. The storm is forecast to reach hurricane status by Saturday, October 25, and may develop into a Category 4 hurricane by early next week.

Heavy rainfall, strong winds, and coastal flooding are anticipated across portions of eastern and southeastern Cuba over the coming days. Meteorologists warn that the risk of damaging winds and storm surge is increasing, particularly for low-lying coastal areas.

The Embassy urges U.S. citizens and residents in Cuba to closely monitor local weather updates and follow instructions from civil defense authorities. Travelers are advised to check flight status with their airlines, as significant disruptions may occur.

Recommended precautions include:

• Monitor official Cuban and U.S. weather sources, including the National Hurricane Center.
• Follow local civil defense instructions and be prepared to take shelter if conditions worsen.
• Keep friends and family informed of your whereabouts.
• 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.

As of Friday afternoon, Tropical Storm Melissa remains over warm Caribbean waters, a factor expected to fuel its rapid intensification as it tracks toward Cuba and possibly the Bahamas.

For official updates, visit the National Hurricane Center.