Hurricane Melissa, a powerful Category 5 storm, is approaching Jamaica with devastating force, bringing extreme winds, torrential rain, and life-threatening flooding. The U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC) has described it as the strongest storm on Earth this year and possibly the most intense hurricane to ever hit Jamaica since 1851.
With sustained winds reaching 175 mph (282 km/h), Hurricane Melissa has already caused widespread destruction across the Caribbean, claiming at least seven lives, three in Jamaica, three in Haiti, and one in the Dominican Republic. The storm continues to move slowly west-northwest at 3 mph (6 km/h), a pace that increases the risk of prolonged rainfall and flash floods across the island.
The NHC warned that Jamaica faces “catastrophic and life-threatening winds, flooding, and storm surge” through Monday night and Tuesday. Experts predict up to 40 inches (100 cm) of rain in some areas, which could trigger severe landslides and widespread damage.
Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness has declared a state of emergency, ordering mass evacuations in coastal and flood-prone areas. Over 880 emergency shelters have been activated across the country, and school buses have been deployed to transport residents to safety. Holness urged citizens to remain indoors and follow evacuation orders, promising that the government would “rebuild stronger” after the storm passes.
In several parts of the island, including the mountainous Hagley Gap region, roads have become impassable, cutting off entire communities. Local residents have expressed fear of both the storm and potential looting, with many choosing to stay behind to protect their homes.
The damage from Hurricane Melissa is also being felt across neighboring countries. In Haiti, hundreds of homes have been flooded, and rescue efforts are ongoing. In the Dominican Republic, heavy rainfall caused flash floods that swept away vehicles and left several people missing.
Meteorologists say Melissa’s strength is among the most extreme ever recorded in the Atlantic Basin. The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) confirmed that one of its Hurricane Hunter aircraft was forced to abandon a data collection mission due to severe turbulence inside the storm’s eye.
Experts warn that Jamaica’s infrastructure may not be able to withstand such an intense hurricane. Officials fear long-term disruption to power, communication, and water supplies once the storm makes full landfall.
As the Caribbean braces for the full impact of Hurricane Melissa, emergency teams are preparing for a large-scale humanitarian response. The government has urged people to remain calm, avoid unnecessary travel, and prioritize safety until conditions improve.
