Hurricane Melissa Rapidly Intensifies as Jamaica Prepares for Catastrophic Impact

Hurricane Melissa is rapidly intensifying into a potential Category 5 storm as it nears Jamaica, threatening catastrophic winds, torrential rain, and life-threatening flooding. According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), the Category 4 hurricane is currently located about 120 miles south-southeast of Kingston, with maximum sustained winds of 140 mph. Forecasters warn the storm could strengthen further before landfall.

Melissa has already claimed at least three lives in the Dominican Republic and three in Haiti due to flooding, landslides, and fallen trees. Now, Jamaica braces for prolonged destruction as heavy rain, storm surge, and hurricane-force winds approach. The NHC warned:

“Damaging winds and heavy rainfall will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and landslides. Extensive infrastructural damage, long-duration power and communication outages, and isolation of communities are expected.”

Preparations Underway in Jamaica

The Jamaican government activated the Emergency Operations Center and readied over 50 generators to restore potable water quickly. Officials have closed airports and seaports until conditions improve. Meteorologists warn that storm surge could reach 10 feet above normal high tide in some southern coastal areas, threatening Kingston and surrounding communities.

Residents are urged to seek shelter immediately. Soils saturated by previous rains heighten the risk of mudslides, while prolonged rainfall could deliver 15-30 inches across Jamaica and southern Hispaniola, with isolated totals exceeding 40 inches.

Regional Threats Beyond Jamaica

After Jamaica, Melissa will move near or over southeastern Cuba, the Bahamas, and the Turks and Caicos, bringing heavy rain, storm surge, and damaging winds. Tropical storm conditions are already affecting portions of Haiti and are expected in Cuba by Tuesday.

Officials stress the importance of taking the storm seriously:

“Don’t make foolish decisions,” urged Jamaica’s Minister of Telecommunications and Transportation, Daryl Vaz. “We are in a very serious situation, and all of Jamaica must bond together to stay safe.”