Hurricane Melissa has intensified into a Category 4 hurricane and is on a trajectory that may see it escalate to a Category 5 hurricane as it approaches Jamaica, as reported by the National Hurricane Center. This dangerous storm is anticipated to bring life-threatening and catastrophic consequences, including flash flooding and landslides, particularly to the island nation of Jamaica, where a hurricane warning is currently in effect.
The hurricane's impact is not limited to Jamaica; a hurricane watch has also been issued for Haiti, extending from its eastern border with the Dominican Republic to the capital, Port-au-Prince. As of Sunday morning, Hurricane Melissa was moving at a slow pace of five miles per hour, with maximum sustained wind speeds reaching up to 140 miles per hour. This slow movement is expected to result in prolonged heavy rainfall across parts of the Caribbean, exacerbating the storm's already dangerous effects over several days.
During a press briefing on Saturday, Jamaican officials emphasized the urgency for residents to prepare for the impending storm. Evan Thompson, the Director of the Meteorological Service of Jamaica, cautioned that Hurricane Melissa could surpass the devastation caused by previous major storms, such as Hurricane Wilma in 2005. "It's going to sit there pouring water while it's barely moving. And that is a significant challenge that we have to be aware of," Thompson stated, highlighting the potential for widespread, catastrophic flooding.
The National Hurricane Center forecasts that Melissa is likely to make landfall on the southern coast of Jamaica by Tuesday morning. Residents are urged to seek shelter immediately. The center estimates that rainfall totals could range from 15 to 30 inches in Jamaica and parts of southern Hispaniola, with some local areas possibly experiencing as much as 40 inches of rain. In response to the threat, the Jamaica Information Service (JIS) has reported that the island's National Water Commission has fully activated its emergency protocols. Hospitals, children's homes, and correctional facilities will be given priority for water delivered by truck in the event of disruptions to Jamaica's water supply.
JIS has also warned residents to remain vigilant, as floods may displace crocodiles from their natural habitats. Tragically, at least one person has already lost their life in the Dominican Republic due to the intense rainfall. In addition, three fatalities have been reported in Haiti as a result of a landslide and falling tree. The National Hurricane Center describes the potential for flash flooding and landslides in southwestern Haiti as catastrophic and life-threatening.
Forecasters are advising regions such as eastern Cuba, the Southeast Bahamas, and the Turks and Caicos Islands to monitor Hurricane Melissa closely as it continues on its path. In a precautionary measure, the U.S. Navy has ordered the evacuation of non-essential personnel and families from the base at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, ahead of the storm's expected arrival. Hurricane conditions are predicted for eastern Cuba from Tuesday into Wednesday, with rainfall totals potentially exceeding one foot.
As Hurricane Melissa approaches, it's crucial for residents in affected areas to stay informed, adhere to safety protocols, and prepare for the severe weather conditions anticipated in the coming days.
