The evacuation of populations from danger zones ahead of the imminent arrival of Hurricane Melissa is the focus of the Provincial Defense Council (CDP) in Holguin, whose priority is the protection of human life.
More than 2,500 people, comprising 930 families, are already sheltered in designated facilities. More than 77,000 Holguin residents are staying with relatives and friends, reported Maite Pupo Romero, head of the commission for population assistance in the province, this Monday.
She added that the elderly residents of the Mayari Nursing Home have also been transferred to the Nicaro Hospital. Also the priority is being given to relocating residents of the Altagracia, La Fortuna, and Limoncito neighborhoods in the municipality of Cacocum. Which are prone to flooding.
In the municipality of Urbano Noris, the communities of Sabanilla, Pedregalon, Cauto 3, Sain, La Camilo, and La Vietnam were the first to be evacuated to shelters set up in local schools.
Joel Queipo Ruíz, president of the Provincial Defense Council (CDP), urged residents not to underestimate the approaching storm. To safeguard lives, and to raise awareness about the need to protect themselves and follow the guidelines issued by Civil Defense.
He emphasized that protecting people is not optional in the face of an unprecedented cyclone. As Melissa is bringing strong winds, heavy rain, and storm surge, which poses a significant danger to communities downstream from the dams. He stressed the need to utilize all available strategies to expedite evacuations.
Moreover he urged residents to take advantage of daylight hours and to monitor the security measures in their homes as a key strategy to ensure people’s safety. During the meeting, the water, energy, tourism, and health subgroups reported on the preparedness. Some measures in place to address the hurricane, which is expected to approach eastern Cuba starting Tuesday night.
In addition, municipalities such as Sagua de Tanamo, Moa, and Mayari detailed the actions being taken to protect the population, economic assets, and basic services. As well as the pumping and repumping of water and preparations for the recovery phase.
According to a report from the Provincial Meteorological Center, Hurricane Melissa intensified its winds to 280 kilometers per hour. Making it a powerful storm with anticipated impacts throughout the province. Therefore, it is essential to follow the Civil Defense guidelines for each stage of the emergency.
With information from CNA and Radio Angulo Newsroom
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