Hurricane Melissa Threatens Jamaica as Unprecedented Category 5 Storm

Hurricane Melissa has intensified into a catastrophic Category 5 storm. The system is barreling towards Jamaica and poses an unprecedented threat. It is expected to make landfall on Tuesday.

This is the most powerful hurricane to approach the island since records began in 1851. Authorities have issued urgent evacuation orders for flood-prone zones.

Jamaica Initiates Full-Scale Emergency Preparations

Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness has urged all citizens to stay indoors. He warned of catastrophic winds, heavy rains, and immediate flash flooding. The government has deployed buses to assist with evacuations.

According to the US National Hurricane Center, Melissa’s winds reached 175 miles per hour. The storm has already been linked to seven deaths in the northern Caribbean. Reuters reported that nearly 50,000 people in western Jamaica are already experiencing power outages.

Critical national infrastructure has been shut down. All ports have been closed to shipping. The nation’s main international airports have also suspended all operations.

Potential for Historic Damage and Humanitarian Crisis

Meteorologists warn the storm could cause a severe humanitarian crisis. Jonathan Porter, a chief meteorologist at AccuWeather, warned of storm surges as high as 13 feet. This threatens key infrastructure like power plants and the airport.

If it makes landfall at its current strength, it will be the first Category 5 storm to ever hit Jamaica. The previous strongest was Hurricane Gilbert, a Category 3 storm, in 1988. The potential for flooding and landslides is considered extreme.

Officials are deeply concerned about residents who refuse to evacuate. Storing clean water has been advised as water systems are already being affected. The country braces for widespread devastation.

The situation remains fluid as Jamaica faces its gravest hurricane threat in history. Residents are urged to follow all official safety directives as Hurricane Melissa approaches.

Info at your fingertips

When is Hurricane Melissa expected to hit Jamaica?

Hurricane Melissa is forecast to make landfall in Jamaica on Tuesday. The storm’s outer bands are already affecting the island with power outages and rain.

What category is Hurricane Melissa?

Hurricane Melissa is a Category 5 storm. This is the highest level on the Saffir-Simpson hurricane wind scale.

Have evacuation orders been issued for Jamaica?

Yes, the Jamaican government has ordered evacuations for flood-prone areas. Buses have been deployed to transport people to safer shelters.

How powerful are Hurricane Melissa’s winds?

The storm has maximum sustained winds of 175 miles per hour. This makes it an exceptionally dangerous and powerful hurricane.

Why is this hurricane considered historic for Jamaica?

Jamaica has never been hit by a Category 4 or 5 hurricane since record-keeping began in 1851. Melissa is poised to be the first.

Trusted Sources

Associated Press, Reuters, US National Hurricane Center, AccuWeather, Jamaica Meteorological Service