Hurricane Melissa Slams Jamaica as Unprecedented Category 5 Storm

Hurricane Melissa made a catastrophic landfall in Jamaica. It struck the island as a Category 5 hurricane on Tuesday. This is the most powerful storm to hit Jamaica since record-keeping began.

According to the US National Hurricane Center, the storm brings sustained winds of 180 mph. Officials warn of total structural failure and life-threatening storm surges. The situation is described as potentially the “storm of the century” for the island nation.

Widespread Devastation and Massive Evacuations

The hurricane’s core moved ashore near St. Elizabeth parish. It then carved a destructive path diagonally across the country. Wind gusts were recorded at over 186 miles per hour.

Authorities ordered mandatory evacuations for vulnerable coastal areas. This includes the historic town of Port Royal. More than 500,000 people were evacuated from at-risk zones in nearby Cuba ahead of the storm’s arrival.

The International Federation of the Red Cross anticipates severe impact. They report that over 1.5 million people in Jamaica could be directly affected. The organization has pre-positioned essential supplies like tarpaulins and hygiene kits.

Regional Response and Long-Term Concerns

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness acknowledged the severe threat. He stated that no regional infrastructure can withstand a direct hit from a Category 5 hurricane. His government has prepared an emergency fund and activated hundreds of shelters.

International aid is already being mobilized. The UN’s International Organization for Migration is sending critical supplies from Barbados. Non-profit groups like Direct Relief have medical packages ready for deployment.

The storm’s effects have been felt across the Caribbean. Heavy rainfall in Haiti and the Dominican Republic led to several fatalities. The full scale of the damage in Jamaica will become clear once the hurricane passes.

The immediate priority is life-saving rescue and securing basic needs for millions of Jamaicans facing this historic weather event.

Thought you’d like to know-

What is the current path of Hurricane Melissa?

After crossing Jamaica, the storm is forecast to move over eastern Cuba. It is then expected to track toward the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos Islands by Wednesday.

How is Jamaica preparing for the hurricane?

The government has opened over 800 shelters for evacuees. Mandatory evacuation orders are in effect for southern coastal communities to move people away from dangerous storm surges.

What are the main dangers from this storm?

The primary threats are catastrophic winds capable of destroying buildings and a life-threatening storm surge of up to 13 feet. Extreme rainfall also raises the risk of devastating flash floods and landslides.

How does Melissa compare to previous hurricanes?

According to the World Meteorological Organization, Melissa is the most powerful hurricane to make landfall in Jamaica since official records began 174 years ago, setting a grim new precedent.

What international aid is being provided?

Agencies like the IOM and IFRC are providing generators, shelters, and medical supplies. Direct Relief has medication staged to treat thousands of people once it can be safely delivered.