Hurricane Melissa has rapidly intensified into a Category 4 storm as it moves northwest through the Caribbean Sea, according to the latest advisory from the National Hurricane Center (NHC). As of early Sunday, a Hurricane Warning is in effect for Jamaica, indicating that hurricane conditions are imminent. Additionally, a Hurricane Watch has been issued for the southwestern peninsula of Haiti and southeastern regions of Cuba, signaling that hurricane conditions could be possible in these areas.
The NHC warns that the multi-day event of torrential rainfall could lead to catastrophic and life-threatening flooding, along with destructive winds and life-threatening storm surge through Tuesday. Satellite imagery reveals that maximum sustained winds have surged to nearly 140 mph (220 km/h), with even higher gusts expected. Continued rapid intensification is anticipated through tonight, followed by potential fluctuations in intensity.
Melissa is projected to maintain its status as a major hurricane when it makes landfall in Jamaica on Monday night or Tuesday morning, followed by impacts in southeastern Cuba late Tuesday. The NHC has issued dire warnings of extensive infrastructural damage, prolonged power and communication outages, and the isolation of communities in both Jamaica and southwestern Haiti.
There is a possibility that Hurricane Melissa could escalate to a Category 5 storm, with sustained winds reaching up to 160 mph, before making landfall. If this occurs, it could become the strongest hurricane to hit Jamaica in over 35 years, surpassing the devastation caused by the Category 4 Hurricane Gilbert in 1988.
The storm is expected to traverse southeastern Cuba on Tuesday night and the southeastern Bahamas on Wednesday. Rainfall estimates indicate that parts of southern Hispaniola and Jamaica could receive between 15 and 30 inches of rain by Wednesday, with isolated areas potentially experiencing up to 40 inches. This deluge poses a significant risk of catastrophic flash flooding and landslides across southern Hispaniola and Jamaica.
In Eastern Cuba, rainfall amounts are forecasted to range from 6 to 18 inches, which may also trigger dangerous flash flooding and landslides. The storm surge, surf, and rip currents are additional hazards that residents should prepare for. The NHC has cautioned that the southern coast of Jamaica will experience life-threatening storm surge from late Monday into Tuesday morning, with surge heights peaking between 9 and 13 feet above ground level.
Residents in affected areas are urged to take necessary precautions and stay informed through official channels. As Hurricane Melissa approaches, it is critical to have a safety plan in place to ensure the well-being of individuals and families during this potentially devastating weather event.
