The powerful storm known as Hurricane Melissa has rapidly intensified over the Caribbean Sea and is now targeting Jamaica with extreme force. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) reports sustained winds reaching 160 mph, classifying Melissa as a Category 5 hurricane — a level of intensity rarely seen in this region.
All of Jamaica is under a hurricane warning, with officials urgently calling for immediate sheltering and swift preparation.Beyond just wind strength, the threat from Melissa is especially grave because of its slow forward movement — making prolonged rainfall, storm surge, and landslides all the more likely. Forecasters expect up to 40 inches of rain in isolated areas and storm surge of 9 to 13 feet along the coast.
Jamaica have shut airports, opened hundreds of shelters, and issued evacuation orders for vulnerable coastal and mountainous zones. For residents and visitors alike, the key mantra right now: don’t wait. Move to a safe shelter, secure supplies, and avoid low-lying areas.
The official window for the most extreme impacts is Monday night into Tuesday morning, when the eye of the storm is expected to make landfall. With Melissa poised to become one of the strongest hurricanes in Jamaican history, prioritizing life and safety is the only preparation that matters.