Hurricane Melissa Caribbean Sea: Catastrophic Threat Rises
Hurricane Melissa has rapidly intensified into a powerful Category 4 storm in the Caribbean Sea, threatening catastrophic and life-threatening conditions across the northern Caribbean, particularly in Jamaica and Haiti, according to the latest updates from the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC).
The slow-moving but immensely powerful system, currently centered south-southeast of Kingston, is on a path that could see it reach or heavily impact Jamaica as a major hurricane as early as late Monday or Tuesday morning. Maximum sustained winds have reached a dangerous 140 mph, with forecasters warning of the potential for Melissa to strengthen even further into a Category 5 storm.
Severe Rainfall and Flooding Expected
The most immediate and dire threat comes from extreme rainfall. Melissa is predicted to unleash torrential rains, with parts of Jamaica and Southern Hispaniola (Haiti and the Dominican Republic) expected to receive up to 30 inches (760 millimeters) of rain, and isolated areas potentially seeing as much as 40 inches (1,010 millimeters).
This prolonged and heavy rainfall, exacerbated by the storm’s slow westward movement at approximately 5 mph, is highly likely to trigger widespread, catastrophic flash flooding and deadly landslides, especially in vulnerable, flood-prone communities.
Caribbean Nations Brace for Impact
Governments across the region have urgently escalated emergency protocols. A Hurricane Warning is in effect for Jamaica, with officials stressing the need for immediate shelter seeking. Key infrastructure closures include the Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston and the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay.
- Jamaica: Over 650 shelters have been activated. Officials warn of extensive damage to infrastructure, long-duration power and communication outages, and community isolation.
- Haiti & Dominican Republic: The storm has already been linked to several fatalities across Hispaniola. Flooding has damaged hundreds of homes and severely impacted water supply systems, isolating communities.
- Cuba & Bahamas: Hurricane Watches are in effect for parts of southeastern Cuba, where heavy rain is also forecast. Melissa is expected to track near or over Cuba by late Tuesday before moving toward the southeastern Bahamas later in the week.
Public Urged to Heed Warnings
As the thirteenth named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season, Melissa's severity has prompted leaders like Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness to issue grave warnings. “I urge Jamaicans to take this weather threat seriously. Take all measures to protect yourself,” he stated. Emergency response teams remain on high alert to manage the unfolding disaster.
Key Updates on Hurricane Melissa
Summary: Hurricane Melissa is a powerful **Category 4** storm with sustained winds of 140 mph and is threatening to intensify further, potentially reaching Category 5 status.
Summary: **Jamaica** and **Southern Hispaniola** (Haiti and the Dominican Republic) face the most severe risk of catastrophic flash flooding and landslides, with up to 30-40 inches of rain forecasted in some areas.
Summary: The hurricane's extremely **slow speed** (approx. 5 mph) means areas will be exposed to destructive winds and torrential rainfall for a prolonged period, maximizing flooding and structural damage.
Summary: Jamaica has issued a Hurricane Warning, activated over **650 shelters**, and closed major airports (Kingston and Montego Bay). Officials are urging immediate evacuation from low-lying areas.
Summary: After impacting Jamaica, Melissa is forecast to move towards southeastern **Cuba** by late Tuesday, bringing heavy rain, before tracking toward the southeastern **Bahamas** later in the week.