Hurricane Melissa has rapidly intensified into a Category 5 storm as it bears down on Jamaica, leaving residents and authorities scrambling in its path. The hurricane is forecast to unleash catastrophic rain, destructive winds, and life-threatening flooding across much of the island by Tuesday night.
Meteorologists warn that Melissa’s slow movement will amplify its danger: rainfall totals may reach 30 to 40 inches in some regions, while storm surges could push seawater several feet inland along Jamaica’s southern coast.
Coastal communities are especially at risk of flooding and structural damage.
The storm has already left a deadly trail across Hispaniola. In Haiti, officials confirmed at least one death when heavy rains triggered flooding and landslides.
Elsewhere, infrastructure damage, power outages and disruptions in basic services are mounting.
Jamaica has issued widespread warnings under alert conditions. Authorities activated over 880 shelters across the island and ordered evacuations in highly vulnerable areas, including parts of Kingston and Port Royal.
Prime Minister Andrew Holness urged citizens to take the threat seriously and seek safety immediately. “Take all measures to protect yourself,” he said, stressing that no area should consider itself immune from harm.
U.S. forecasters have flagged the hurricane as one of the strongest ever seen in the region. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) warned of “catastrophic” flash flooding and numerous landslides, especially in mountainous terrain.
The NHC report also cautioned that weakening of winds does not mean reduced impact — extended rainfall and surges can exact massive destruction.
Beyond Jamaica, Melissa’s projected path includes Cuba, and the Bahamas, where storm conditions may spread following the island landfall.
In response, disaster management agencies across the Caribbean have issued calls for action. Residents have been urged to stock supplies, reinforce property, and evacuate low-lying zones.
At least seven fatalities have been attributed to Melissa so far, spanning Jamaica, Haiti and other impacted islands. The full extent of property damage and recovery needs remains unclear.
As the window for preparation narrows, Jamaica and neighboring Caribbean nations face a dire test. The coming hours will determine the storm’s human and economic cost — and whether early warnings and evacuations save lives.
