A dangerous hurricane is rapidly strengthening as it moves towards Jamaica and Cuba, with the potential to reach Category 5 status before making landfall later today or early tomorrow, according to meteorologists. The US National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued warnings that Hurricane Melissa could bring severe flooding, landslides, and storm surges to the area. Jamaican officials have advised residents to seek shelter in the 900 designated evacuation centers spread across the island.
Prime Minister Andrew Holness has implemented mandatory evacuation orders for Port Royal in Kingston and six other regions. The storm, currently named Melissa, has sustained winds of up to 140mph (220kph) and is anticipated to strengthen further as it nears Jamaica.
Desmond McKenzie, Minister of Local Government, expressed concerns about the potential devastation, especially in low-lying areas like Kingston. He stated that flooding is expected to be significant, impacting various communities in the region. Both international airports have been closed as a precautionary measure.
The slow-moving storm has already resulted in casualties in Haiti and the Dominican Republic, with additional reports of missing individuals. The NHC forecasts that Melissa could bring extremely heavy rainfall to Jamaica and southern Hispaniola, with localized amounts exceeding one meter (40 inches).
Eastern Cuba is also projected to receive substantial rainfall, posing risks of flooding and potential damage to infrastructure. Authorities are cautioning about the likelihood of power outages and communication disruptions, along with the isolation of some communities in Jamaica.
Jamaica’s Information Minister, Dana Morris Dixon, mentioned that the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency is ready to provide assistance, and various international partners have pledged their support. She emphasized the unprecedented rainfall projections and urged preparedness for the severe weather conditions expected in the coming days.
AccuWeather’s lead hurricane expert, Alex DaSilva, highlighted the need for residents in Haiti, the Dominican Republic, Cuba, and Jamaica to brace for torrential rainfall, flash floods, power outages, and potential road damages. The impact of Hurricane Melissa could be catastrophic, requiring residents to take necessary precautions and stay alert.