In the small town of El Cobre in Santiago de Cuba, the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa is apparent at every turn. The sense of complete destruction prevails as locals report that 90% of the area has been ravaged.
Homes have been demolished, streets are obstructed, and entire families are without essential supplies. This is the current state of a community striving to rebuild with the aid of donations and volunteer groups.
"Ninety percent of El Cobre has been left with nothing," residents shared with Cuban television.
"Houses were blown away, roofs vanished, and many people lost everything," they recounted.
The cyclone, which battered the province of Santiago de Cuba with fierce winds and relentless rainfall, has left a trail of destruction that local authorities continue to assess.
Preliminary reports indicate that El Cobre and parts of the municipality of Palma Soriano were the hardest hit areas.
In recent hours, several shipments of humanitarian aid have arrived, including food, mattresses, and construction materials.
International organizations, such as UNICEF and the United Nations in Cuba, have confirmed the dispatch of medical supplies to hospitals in Holguín and Santiago to support emergency efforts.
The iconic Basilica of Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre, a spiritual symbol for Cuba, also sustained minor structural damage but remains standing.
Church authorities have confirmed that religious services and activities will resume once the cleanup of the premises is completed.
Impact of Hurricane Melissa on El Cobre
What percentage of El Cobre was affected by Hurricane Melissa?
Residents report that 90% of El Cobre has been devastated by Hurricane Melissa.
Which areas were most affected by the hurricane?
El Cobre and parts of the municipality of Palma Soriano were the most severely impacted by the hurricane.
What kind of aid has been provided to the affected areas?
Humanitarian aid, including food, mattresses, and building materials, has been delivered to the affected areas.