Eastern Cuba Faces Widespread Power Blackouts Ahead Hurricane Melissa

Eastern Cuba has been deliberately disconnected from the national power grid as a precaution against the approaching Hurricane Melissa, which carries winds exceeding 230 km/h, to protect the stability of the National Electric System (SEN). Key thermal power plants in the region, including Antonio Maceo (Rente), Lidio Ramón Pérez (Felton), and the Moa Fuel Plant, have been shut down due to their vulnerability to hurricane-force winds. The Cuban Electric Union (UNE) reported a severe energy crisis exacerbated by breakdowns, maintenance issues, and significant fuel shortages, resulting in a generation deficit exceeding 1,700 megawatts and widespread blackouts. Citizens across eastern provinces such as Santiago de Cuba, Holguín, and Guantánamo have expressed frustration over prolonged power outages, lack of food, and inadequate official communication, feeling abandoned as the storm approaches. The outages have complicated preparations for the hurricane, affecting food preservation, communication, and evacuation efforts. Authorities warn the situation may worsen with the hurricane's arrival, potentially causing further outages and repair delays.