One month after Hurricane Melissa ravaged eastern Cuba as a Category 3 storm, the island continues its arduous journey toward recovery. The November 2025 disaster left a trail of destroyed homes, collapsed roads, and crippled infrastructure, testing the resilience of affected communities.
Local authorities report progress in restoring essential services, with electricity partially reinstated in hardest-hit areas like Santiago de Cuba and Guantánamo. Emergency crews work daily to clear debris, though damaged bridges and landslides continue to hinder access to remote villages.
"This isn't just about rebuilding structures – it's about rebuilding lives," said María López, a Red Cross coordinator assisting displaced families. Over 23,000 residents remain in temporary shelters as construction materials remain scarce.
The Cuban government has mobilized military engineering units to accelerate reconstruction while appealing for international aid. China and several Latin American nations have delivered emergency supplies, including medical kits and portable water purification systems.
Meteorologists warn that Melissa's long-term economic impact could affect Caribbean trade flows through 2026, particularly for citrus and coffee exports from Cuba's eastern provinces. Regional analysts suggest the recovery process may take 18-24 months to complete.
