Hurricane Melissa Strengthens to Category 5, Threatening Catastrophic Caribbean Flooding

Hurricane Melissa has intensified into an extremely dangerous Category 5 storm. It is currently threatening the northern Caribbean with catastrophic flooding. The storm is expected to impact Jamaica and Haiti imminently.

The US National Hurricane Center issued urgent warnings for these islands. According to the Associated Press, officials are pleading with residents in vulnerable areas to evacuate immediately.

Projected Path and Immediate Dangers

The NHC forecasts Melissa to pass near or over Jamaica early Tuesday. It is then expected to sweep across Cuba and into the southeastern Bahamas by Wednesday. The storm’s slow movement increases the risk of prolonged, torrential rainfall.

Rainfall totals could reach a staggering 30 inches in Jamaica and southern Hispaniola. Isolated areas may see up to 40 inches of rain. This poses a severe threat of life-threatening flash floods and mudslides.

Regional Preparations and Early Impacts

Jamaica has closed its main international airports. Evacuation orders are in effect for low-lying and flood-prone zones. Officials report that warehouses are stocked with supplies for rapid distribution after the storm passes.

The storm has already claimed lives. Authorities in Haiti and the Dominican Republic report at least four fatalities. A collapsed wall caused three deaths in Haiti, highlighting the storm’s early dangers.

The situation remains fluid and extremely dangerous. Residents across the Caribbean are urged to follow all evacuation orders and finalize their preparations without delay as Hurricane Melissa approaches.

Thought you’d like to know-

What areas are under a hurricane warning?

Hurricane warnings are in effect for Jamaica and several Cuban provinces. These include Granma, Santiago de Cuba, Guantánamo, and Holguín. The southeastern Bahamas are also under watch.

How strong is a Category 5 hurricane?

Category 5 is the highest level on the Saffir-Simpson scale. It signifies sustained winds of 157 mph or greater. Storms of this magnitude cause catastrophic damage to structures and infrastructure.

What is the main threat from Hurricane Melissa?

The primary threat is catastrophic rainfall and flooding. The NHC warns of potentially 30 to 40 inches of rain in some areas. This will likely lead to devastating flash floods and mudslides.

Have there been any fatalities?

Yes, the storm has been linked to at least four deaths. Three people died in Haiti and one in the Dominican Republic. These incidents were related to collapsing structures and flooding.

Are residents complying with evacuation orders?

Officials report that many people in flood-prone areas are not evacuating. They are urging everyone in advisory zones to move to safety immediately. All of Jamaica’s shelters are now open and operational.

Trusted Sources

US National Hurricane Center, Associated Press, Reuters, The Meteorological Service of Jamaica.