Tropical Storm Melissa has strengthened into a hurricane and is on track to become a powerful Category 4 storm, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center. The storm is projected to cause severe weather across the Caribbean, particularly in Jamaica and southern Hispaniola, leading to potential catastrophic floods, landslides, and storm surges.
As of Saturday, Hurricane Melissa was located about 130 miles southeast of Kingston, Jamaica, and 250 miles southwest of Port-au-Prince, Haiti. The storm has maximum sustained winds reaching 90 mph and is moving west at a slow pace of 3 mph. This slow movement raises concerns about prolonged impacts on affected areas.
A hurricane warning is currently in effect for Jamaica, while a hurricane watch has been issued for parts of southwestern Haiti and Cuba, including Granma, Santiago de Cuba, Guantanamo, and Holguin. Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness urged citizens to prepare for the storm, emphasizing that the entire island will feel its effects for several days. He advised residents in low-lying areas to consider evacuation, although no mandatory orders have been given.
Evan Thompson, from Jamaica’s Meteorological Service, mentioned that Melissa could hit Jamaica as a Category 4 hurricane by Tuesday, with sustained winds between 130 to 156 mph. He stressed that today is crucial for residents to secure their homes and gather supplies before the storm arrives.
People across Jamaica are taking action. Many are rushing to stores to buy essentials and reinforce their homes. Fishermen in Kingston are preparing their boats and trying to sell their goods before the storm disrupts their livelihoods. Local vendor Diane Thompson expressed her fears, hoping for a change in the storm’s course.
The National Hurricane Center predicts that Jamaica could see between 15 to 30 inches of rain, with some areas possibly receiving up to 40 inches. Eastern Cuba is also expected to experience significant rainfall. Additionally, storm surges of up to 13 feet are anticipated along Jamaica’s south coast, along with large, destructive waves.
Fisherman Clive Davis shared his worries about the potential damage from Melissa, recalling the destruction caused by last year’s Hurricane Beryl. He noted that the storm’s slow movement could hinder business and disrupt daily life.
As the storm approaches, residents are bracing for the worst, hoping for safety and minimal impact from Hurricane Melissa.
