A severe weather map depicting the projected path of Hurricane Melissa showcases the anticipated intensity of this massive storm, with experts issuing warnings of potentially catastrophic impacts affecting millions of individuals.
Hurricane Melissa, currently with powerful 120mph (195 km/h) winds, is steadily gaining strength towards an uncommon Category 5 status as it progresses northwestward towards Jamaica, with a forecasted landfall scheduled for Tuesday. The slow movement of the storm at just 5mph is expected to exacerbate the impact, prolonging the risk of flooding, massive waves, and increased damage to coastal areas and structures.
Comparisons have been drawn to the devastating Storm Gilbert of 1988, raising concerns that Hurricane Melissa could surpass its destructive force. Residents of Jamaica are being urged to seek immediate shelter in preparation for the impending severe weather event, as illustrated by a forecast map created by Ventusky.
Recent updates from the US National Hurricane Centre (NHC) highlight the imminent threats posed by Hurricane Melissa, warning of damaging winds and heavy rainfall leading to life-threatening flash flooding and landslides before the potentially devastating winds hit the affected areas.
The NHC forecasts that Hurricane Melissa is likely to pass near or over Jamaica early Tuesday before crossing into Cuba and then moving towards the southeastern Bahamas. Rainfall estimates suggest that Jamaica and parts of Hispaniola could receive up to 30 inches (76 centimeters) of rain, with localized areas expecting as much as 40 inches (1 meter) of rainfall.
In a national address, Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness emphasized the importance of preparedness, advising citizens to secure their homes using sandbags and wooden boards and to stock up on essential supplies for the challenging days ahead.
Weather warnings are also in effect for regions in Haiti, including the capital, Port-au-Prince, as well as the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, which are bracing for the impact of Hurricane Melissa later this week before it moves across the Antilles and into the Atlantic.
Tragically, reports from BBC News confirm that the storm has already caused landslides resulting in two fatalities in Haiti, according to the nation’s Civil Protection agency.