Hurricane Melissa Intensifies to Category 4, Threatens Catastrophic Caribbean Flooding

Hurricane Melissa has rapidly intensified into a major Category 4 storm. The system is churning towards Jamaica and Haiti. The US National Hurricane Center warns it could become a rare Category 5 hurricane.

This slow-moving storm poses an extreme flood threat. It has already claimed several lives in Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Officials are urging immediate action from residents.

Immediate Threats to Jamaica and Haiti

The storm was centred about 120 miles south-southeast of Kingston, Jamaica. Maximum sustained winds reached 140 mph. According to the Associated Press, the storm is moving west at a slow 5 mph pace.

This slow movement increases the risk of catastrophic rainfall. The National Hurricane Center forecasts up to 30 inches of rain for Jamaica and southern Hispaniola. Some isolated areas could see a devastating 40 inches.

Regional Impact and Preparations Underway

The hurricane’s path will bring it near or over Cuba by late Tuesday. It is then expected to track towards the Bahamas. Cuban authorities have already issued a hurricane watch for several provinces.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness is urging citizens to take the threat seriously. The Associated Press reports that over 650 shelters are now active across Jamaica. Emergency supplies, including thousands of food packages, have been prepositioned for rapid distribution.

Hurricane Melissa represents a severe test for the northern Caribbean. Its potential for record-breaking rainfall and destructive winds demands the highest level of caution. Residents in the projected path must follow all evacuation orders and safety instructions immediately.

Thought you’d like to know-

What is the current status of Hurricane Melissa?

Hurricane Melissa is a major Category 4 hurricane. It has sustained winds of 140 mph. Forecasters say it could strengthen further into a Category 5.

Which areas are under the most severe threat?

Jamaica and southern Hispaniola, including Haiti and the Dominican Republic, face the most immediate danger. The storm is expected to bring life-threatening flooding and powerful winds to these regions.

How much rainfall is expected from this hurricane?

The forecast calls for a widespread 20 to 30 inches of rain. Some areas in Jamaica and Haiti could see isolated totals of up to 40 inches. This creates a high risk of flash floods and mudslides.

What are the main dangers of a slow-moving storm like Melissa?

A slow-moving storm prolongs exposure to its hazards. This leads to much higher rainfall accumulations. It also extends the period of damaging winds over a single area.

What preparations are being made in Jamaica?

Jamaican officials have activated more than 650 emergency shelters. They have also prepositioned thousands of food packages. The public is being urged to seek safety immediately.

Trusted Sources

Associated Press, US National Hurricane Center, Reuters