Hurricane Melissa is now a Category 5 monster-fabulous storm; it may well become one of the most powerful storms recorded in the Atlantic with record winds exceeding 157 mph (250 kph), the meteorologists are warning that if Melissa were to reach Jamaica, it could be the strongest hurricane to make landfall there since 1851.
The National Hurricane Center estimates it will hit land on Tuesday applicable mind with catastrophic flooding, landslides, and storm surges across the island. “Melissa may be a once-in-a-century event and one that will leave forever impacts on the Caribbean region,” said Jonathan Porter, chief meteorologist at AccuWeather.
Expected Path & Regional Impacts
Expectations are that Melissa will slam into Jamaica first before continuing to Cuba and the Bahamas, later on, Tuesday. Heavy rainfall is expected in eastern Jamaica where some areas may receive up to 30 inches in less than 48 hours. Western Haiti may see as much as 16 inches enhancing risks for deadly landslides.
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For the anticipated arrival of the storm in Cuba has taken precautionary measures, 600,000 residents have already been evacuated from four eastern provinces including Santiago de Cuba. The Dominican Republic remains under red alert after the injuries inflicted by Melissa on various hundreds of homes and isolation of dozens of communities over the weekend.
Will the U.S. Hit Next?
Travel cancellations are being reported on a widespread manner due to the storm. Three international airports in Jamaica-Norman Manley, Ian Fleming and Sangster are closed.
Major cruise lines including Carnival and Celebrity Cruises have changed port call itineraries to avoid the storm’s path. The Carnival Fleet Operations Center in Miami has confirmed that several of its vessels itineraries were changed in favor of passenger safety.
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U.S. Embassy Urges Americans to Take Shelter
An urgent advisory was issued by the U.S. Embassy in Kingston that Americans on the island prepare to shelter in place. Cuba has given similar alerts, telling residents to evacuate or secure their supplies immediately.
“This is a dangerous storm. Catastrophic flash flooding and landslides are likely,” the U.S. Embassy said.
Government Seeks Adherence
Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness has signed a mandatory evacuation order for the southern coast. He urged residents not to ignore any official warnings “We can reduce damage and speed recovery by acting before the storm hits.”
As the Caribbean gets ready for an impact, Melissa stands testimony to increasing storm intensity in a warming climate-and urges preparedness measure.
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Disclaimer: This article is based on verified weather reports and government updates. Forecasts may change as new data emerges; readers should follow official alerts.
