Hurricane Melissa made landfall as a Category 3 storm in eastern Cuba early on October 29, 2025, according to a weather alert from the U.S. Embassy in Havana. The embassy reported that the hurricane is expected to move into the Southwestern Atlantic soon.
The storm has brought significant rainfall to the region, with forecasts predicting between 10 and 20 inches of rain and local amounts reaching up to 25 inches in mountainous areas. This level of precipitation is likely to cause life-threatening flash floods and numerous landslides.
The embassy warned that "Cuba’s lack of health and emergency infrastructure, including an unreliable power grid, will affect the country’s ability to respond." Infrastructure problems are anticipated across the island even after Hurricane Melissa passes. There have already been reports of flooding, downed power lines, and collapsed buildings.
U.S. citizens in Cuba have been advised to stay sheltered in place and follow guidance from Cuban Civil Defense authorities. The embassy emphasized that travel within affected or advisory areas should be avoided due to ongoing risks.
Transportation disruptions are widespread. Cuba’s Ministry of Transportation has suspended train, bus, and flight services in the eastern region and halted maritime transport in the west because of storm risks. Antonio Maceo International Airport (Santiago de Cuba) and Frank Pais International Airport (Holguin) are closed from October 28 through October 30. Sierra Maestra Airport (Manzanillo) is shut until October 31. Additional airports in Baracoa (Gustavo Rizo Airport) and potentially Camagüey (Ignacio Agramonte Airport) may also be affected depending on Hurricane Melissa's path.
Travelers were encouraged to check directly with airlines for updates about potential flight disruptions.
The U.S. Embassy remains available for American Citizens Services during this period.
"U.S. citizens should remain sheltered in place and follow the directives of Cuban Civil Defense," stated the alert from the U.S. Embassy Havana.
For emergency assistance, U.S. citizens can contact the embassy at +(53) (7) 839-4100 or by email at acshavana@state.gov.
Additional resources are available through official channels such as Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), WhatsApp, and by enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).