Category 4 Hurricane Melissa Approaches Jamaica
Hurricane Melissa continues to strengthen in the Caribbean, forcing Jamaica to issue mandatory evacuation orders for vulnerable communities, including parts of Kingston and Port Royal. As of Sunday evening, the powerful storm was located about 125 miles south-southwest of Kingston, packing sustained winds of 145 mph (230 km/h) and moving slowly westward at 5 mph (7 km/h).
According to the US National Hurricane Center (NHC), Melissa could reach Category 5 strength by Monday, with winds exceeding 157 mph (250 km/h) — a scenario that could bring catastrophic damage to the island and neighboring countries.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sNZTBRZrc0Q
Government Declares Emergency and Evacuations
Prime Minister Andrew Holness announced mandatory evacuations in low-lying areas, including Port Royal, Old Harbour Bay, and other flood-prone communities. During an emergency press conference in Kingston, authorities confirmed that both international airports are closed and 881 shelters have been activated to house evacuees.
“Kingston is extremely low. No community is immune from flooding,” said Desmond McKenzie, Jamaica’s Minister of Local Government. “Many of these communities will not survive the flooding if people ignore evacuation orders.”
Residents Divided Over Evacuation Orders
Despite official warnings, some residents in the historic fishing town of Port Royal have refused to leave. Ann Marie Chamberlain, a 51-year-old self-employed resident, said locals are relying on faith and preparation.
“Father God will protect us. We’ve secured our homes and pulled up the boats,” she explained, recalling poor conditions in shelters during previous hurricanes.
Others, like Derrick Powell, expressed distrust in the shelter system, saying that residents prefer to “ride out the storm” at home despite the risks.
Heavy Rainfall and Life-Threatening Flooding Expected
Meteorologists predict up to 30 inches (76 cm) of rainfall across Jamaica and southern Hispaniola — including Haiti and the Dominican Republic — with localized totals reaching 40 inches (1 meter). The combination of slow movement and rapid intensification makes Hurricane Melissa particularly dangerous, raising fears of flash floods, landslides, and prolonged power outages.
Regional Impact: Haiti, Dominican Republic, and Cuba on Alert
Hurricane Melissa has already caused destruction across the region, claiming at least four lives — three in Haiti and one in the Dominican Republic. In the Dominican Republic, the storm has damaged over 200 homes, disrupted water systems for half a million residents, and caused landslides that isolated several communities.
Cuba has issued hurricane watches for the provinces of Granma, Santiago de Cuba, Guantánamo, and Holguín as the storm tracks northward. Forecasters warn that by late Tuesday, Melissa could bring torrential rain up to 300 mm to eastern Cuba before threatening the Bahamas later in the week.
Experts Warn of “Dire” Consequences
Jamie Rhome, deputy director of the NHC, cautioned that the storm’s slow pace means communities could face days of sustained hurricane conditions. “Unfortunately, for places along the projected path, the situation is increasingly dire,” he said.
Preparedness and Safety Measures
Jamaican authorities are urging residents to:
- Follow official evacuation orders immediately.
- Move to higher ground and avoid coastal areas.
- Stock essential supplies — food, water, and medication for at least 72 hours.
- Stay tuned to official weather updates via local media or the NHC.
Conclusion
As Hurricane Melissa Jamaica intensifies, the island braces for one of the most dangerous storms in recent memory. With Category 4 winds, life-threatening rainfall, and the potential to reach Category 5 strength, the government and citizens alike face a critical test of preparedness and resilience in the coming days.
