Hurricane Melissa has caused significant concern among Cuban families living in Port St. Lucie, as the powerful storm struck Cuba and disrupted communication with loved ones on the island. The hurricane’s impact has highlighted ongoing challenges faced by residents both in Cuba and the local community, as well as the concerns of Port St. Lucie residents following Melissa’s path through Jamaica.

Hurricane Melissa Brings Severe Weather to Cuba

According to reports from the National Hurricane Center, Hurricane Melissa made landfall in eastern Cuba on October 29, 2025, after passing over Jamaica as a Category 5 storm. The hurricane weakened to a Category 3 as it reached the Santiago de Cuba area, bringing heavy winds and flooding to the region.

Severe flooding was reported in Santiago de Cuba, with streets inundated and infrastructure damaged. The storm disrupted essential services, leaving many residents without power, internet, or phone lines, according to official updates from Cuban authorities.

Cuban Native in Port St. Lucie Shares Concerns

Giovanni Montesano, a 60-year-old real estate broker and longtime Port St. Lucie resident, was born and raised in Havana, Cuba. Montesano still has close family members living in Havana, including a brother and sister.

“The last time I spoke to my sister was yesterday (Oct. 28) at around 2 o’clock in the afternoon,” Montesano said. “After that, probably because of the winds and everything, the internet got shut down. They have no communication … no internet, no phone lines, nothing.”

Montesano described the anxiety of losing contact with family as Hurricane Melissa made landfall. He noted that the home where he grew up was built in 1900 with a tile roof and has faced decades of limited maintenance due to shortages of construction materials.

Ongoing Shortages and Infrastructure Challenges

Montesano explained that his family in Havana faces regular shortages of food and water. “They have water only twice a week,” he said. “They have to fill tanks, and I mean it is crazy.” The lack of reliable infrastructure has made coping with hurricane conditions even more difficult for residents, who have already been adapting to ongoing food shortages and creative solutions in Cuba.

He also expressed concerns about the distribution of international aid. Montesano stated, “The government keeps everything … usually the donations and all kinds of stuff that goes there goes to the store and they sell it to the people.” He highlighted worries that corruption could prevent relief from reaching those most in need.

Port St. Lucie Residents Seek Ways to Help

Montesano, who previously worked as a radio and television journalist in Cuba, has attempted to send assistance to his family and others affected by Hurricane Melissa. He said he has contacted agencies in the United States authorized by the U.S. Department of State to send aid to Cuba, and is aware of local efforts such as the Boynton Beach nonprofit collecting donations for hurricane victims in Jamaica.

“With the embargo, the government doesn’t allow companies to do it, only if they have a special permit from the Department of State,” Montesano explained. The process for sending aid remains complex due to international restrictions and the need for official authorization.

Communication Disruptions Affect Local Families

Many Cuban Americans in Port St. Lucie and throughout Florida are experiencing similar difficulties as Hurricane Melissa has cut off communication with relatives in Cuba. The loss of internet and phone service has left families anxious for updates on the safety and well-being of their loved ones.

According to the National Hurricane Center, restoration of services in affected areas may take time as crews work to repair damaged infrastructure. Details may be updated as the situation develops and more information becomes available from official sources.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hurricane Melissa Port St. Lucie

What is Hurricane Melissa and how did it affect Port St. Lucie residents?

Hurricane Melissa is a major storm that struck Cuba in late October 2025. Some Port St. Lucie residents with family in Cuba, like Giovanni Montesano, are concerned due to lost communication and the storm’s impact on their loved ones.

How much damage did Hurricane Melissa cause in Cuba?

According to official reports, Hurricane Melissa brought heavy winds and severe flooding to eastern Cuba, especially Santiago de Cuba. Many areas lost power, internet, and phone service, but exact damage assessments are still ongoing.

Are there ways for Port St. Lucie families to send aid to Cuba after Hurricane Melissa?

Port St. Lucie residents can send help to Cuba only through agencies authorized by the U.S. Department of State. Due to the embargo, special permits are required for sending aid, and the process can be complicated.

Can you contact family in Cuba after Hurricane Melissa?

Many people in PSL are unable to reach family in Cuba due to outages of internet and phone lines caused by the hurricane. Communication may be restored as repairs are made, according to official sources.

Where are most Cuban families in Port St. Lucie from?

Many Cuban families in PSL have roots in cities like Havana and Santiago de Cuba. They often maintain close ties with relatives still living in Cuba.

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