When Is Hurricane Melissa Going to Hit Jamaica? Latest Update and What You Should Know

Hurricane Melissa is now a Category 5 storm and is expected to make landfall in Jamaica early Tuesday morning, bringing catastrophic winds and flooding to the island. Jamaica, Haiti, and Cuba are all on high alert as this system continues to intensify over the Caribbean Sea. (Main keyword: when is hurricane melissa going to hit jamaica)

Authorities have warned residents to brace for a dangerous impact, with government shelters already opened across Jamaica. Officials say this could be the strongest hurricane to strike the island directly since 1988.

Hurricane Melissa’s Landfall Time and Latest Forecast for Jamaica

According to the U.S. National Hurricane Center, Hurricane Melissa was located about 130 miles southwest of Kingston, Jamaica, early Monday. The storm is moving slowly west at around 5 mph and producing sustained winds near 160 mph, confirming its Category 5 strength. Melissa is forecast to make landfall in Jamaica on Tuesday morning, with the outer rainbands already affecting parts of the island late Monday night.

The hurricane is expected to dump between 15 to 30 inches of rain across most of Jamaica, with localized areas possibly receiving up to 40 inches. The southern coastline could face storm surges of 9 to 13 feet, putting low-lying communities at severe risk of flooding. Power outages and infrastructure damage are likely as the hurricane’s eye crosses the island.

Jamaica’s emergency management agency has prepared more than 880 shelters nationwide, with hundreds of residents already relocated from coastal and flood-prone areas. Airports and seaports have suspended operations, and authorities have urged citizens to remain indoors through Tuesday.

Impact on Haiti, Cuba, and the Wider Caribbean

After striking Jamaica, Hurricane Melissa is expected to move toward southeastern Cuba and the southern coast of Haiti. Both countries are preparing for heavy rainfall, flash floods, and potential landslides in mountainous regions. The hurricane will likely remain at or near major hurricane strength as it tracks northeast toward the Bahamas later in the week.

Meteorologists note that this is the first recorded instance of a Category 4 or 5 storm making direct landfall on Jamaica since record-keeping began. The slow movement of Melissa will prolong dangerous conditions and delay recovery efforts in its wake. Emergency responders in multiple Caribbean nations are coordinating relief and evacuation plans as rainfall and wind intensify.

In summary: When is Hurricane Melissa going to hit Jamaica? The storm is forecast to make landfall early Tuesday morning, with life-threatening winds and extreme rainfall expected to peak overnight Monday into Tuesday. Authorities are urging everyone to complete preparations immediately and stay sheltered until further notice.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: When exactly will Hurricane Melissa hit Jamaica?

Landfall is projected for early Tuesday morning local time. Outer rainbands and strong winds are expected late Monday night across southern Jamaica.

Q2: What is the strength of Hurricane Melissa now?

Hurricane Melissa is a Category 5 storm with sustained winds of around 160 mph. It is the strongest hurricane to threaten Jamaica in decades.

Q3: Which areas of Jamaica will be most affected?

Coastal regions, especially along the southern and southwestern shores, will face the highest risk of storm surge and flooding. Mountainous areas could experience landslides from intense rainfall.

Q4: Will Haiti and Cuba also be affected?

Yes. Melissa is expected to bring heavy rainfall, flooding, and strong winds to southern Haiti and eastern Cuba after passing Jamaica. Both countries are under hurricane alerts.

Q5: How can residents prepare for Hurricane Melissa?

Residents should move to designated shelters, secure homes and property, stock essential supplies, and stay tuned to local emergency broadcasts. Avoid travel and flooded areas.