Hurricane Melissa is making headlines as it approaches Jamaica, bringing with it severe weather conditions that are expected to cause significant damage. The storm, classified as a Category 5, is the strongest type of hurricane, with winds exceeding 186 miles per hour. Authorities in Jamaica have ordered mandatory evacuations in anticipation of the storm’s impact.
The World Meteorological Organization has warned that Jamaica will face catastrophic conditions, with storm surges reaching up to four meters and rainfall expected to surpass 70 centimeters. This could lead to devastating flash floods and landslides across the island. Anne-Claire Fontan, a specialist with the organization, described the situation as a potential "storm of the century" for Jamaica.
The U.S. National Hurricane Center has reported that Melissa is set to hit Jamaica early Tuesday morning. After impacting Jamaica, the storm is expected to move across eastern Cuba and then on to the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos by Wednesday. The slow movement of the storm over warm Caribbean waters has contributed to its rapid intensification, posing a serious threat to the island.
The International Federation of the Red Cross estimates that up to 1.5 million people in Jamaica could be directly affected by the storm. Necephor Mghendi from the Red Cross warned that many people will face difficult conditions, with rising floodwaters and damaged homes. To prepare for the aftermath, essential items like tarpaulins, hygiene kits, and safe drinking water have already been positioned across the island, and over 800 shelters have been set up for those in need.
Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness has taken action by ordering evacuations in vulnerable areas, including the historic town of Port Royal. He cautioned that the storm could severely damage infrastructure, farmlands, and homes. With the island’s main airports located close to sea level, the potential for devastation is significant.
Holness noted that the government has allocated $33 million for emergency response efforts. This budget includes provisions for potential damages, which could exceed those from last year’s Hurricane Beryl, the fastest hurricane on record to reach Category 5. Experts are concerned that climate change is causing storms to become stronger and more destructive at a faster rate.
As the storm approaches, residents are already feeling the effects. Damian Anderson, a teacher from Hagley Gap, shared that his community is cut off due to impassable roads, expressing fear over the unprecedented nature of this storm.
Nearby countries like Haiti and the Dominican Republic have also experienced heavy rainfall, resulting in at least four fatalities. As Melissa continues its path, it is expected to bring further rain and destructive winds to South Cuba and the Bahamas. In preparation, the Bahamian Prime Minister has ordered evacuations in the southern and eastern regions, while Cuba has evacuated over 500,000 people from at-risk areas.
As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on ensuring safety and providing relief to those affected by this powerful storm.
