Hurricane Melissa is expected to cross Jamaica and then hit eastern Cuba. You can actually see the storm preps underway in Havana and evacuations in Santiago de Guuba. >> The National Hurricane Center warning that that heavy rain could trigger catastrophic floods and landslides there.NBC News reporter Ed Augustine is following the latest from Havana for us. Ed, it's good to see you and hear you. Cuba facing constant nationwide blackouts, fuel and food shortages, even a deni fever outbreak prior to Melissa.S ...

Hurricane Conditions and Impact - Tropical storm force winds, clocking in at 40-60 miles per hour, are present in Kingston, Jamaica [2] - Debris is starting to fly, and siding from older buildings is tearing off [3] - Roads in low-lying areas have started to flood [3] - Trash accumulation in gullies (ravines) is causing drainage problems [4] Safety and Preparedness - News crews prioritize safety with plans A, B, and C, including fortified buildings and refuge locations [9] - Crews stock up on essential supplies like water and non-perishable foods [11] - Officials advise residents without a plan to find a safe space, as the window for preparation is shortening [7] Infrastructure and Recovery - Power outages are a significant concern [11][12] - Officials learned from last year's hurricane about staging and tools for quick power restoration [13] - Linemen from the states have arrived to assist with power restoration after the storm passes [14]