Category 5 Hurricane Melissa Approaches Jamaica with Expected Catastrophic Impact
Hurricane Melissa Intensifies to Category 5
Hurricane Melissa has rapidly intensified over the weekend, reaching Category 5 status with 165 mph winds. The storm is currently affecting Jamaica with strong winds and heavy rainfall.
The National Hurricane Center has warned of catastrophic impacts, including up to 40 inches of rain, 13 feet of storm surge, and sustained winds of 160 mph. Mandatory evacuation orders have been issued for vulnerable coastal areas in Jamaica, where Melissa is expected to be the strongest storm on record. The hurricane has already caused casualties in Haiti and the Dominican Republic.
Melissa's rapid intensification over the weekend saw its winds increase by 70 mph in just 24 hours. This extreme strengthening is attributed to warming ocean temperatures due to fossil fuel pollution.
It has been 13 years since Jamaica last experienced a hurricane landfall. However, previous storms like Hurricane Gilbert in 1988 caused significant damage and loss of life on the island.
Government officials in Jamaica, including ministers of Education, Local Government, Water, and Meteorological Service, are providing updates on Hurricane Melissa's progress as it approaches the country.
Authorities have urged residents to heed evacuation orders and seek shelter as Melissa poses a significant threat with its sustained winds of 165 mph and potential storm surges of up to 13 feet.
Melissa is forecasted to be the most powerful hurricane to hit Jamaica since Hurricane Gilbert in 1988. The storm's slow movement over warm waters has contributed to its rapid intensification, posing a serious risk to the island nation.
Jamaica is bracing for the impact of Melissa, with preparations in place for potential catastrophic flooding, landslides, and destructive winds. The government has issued evacuation orders and set up shelters across the country to ensure the safety of its population.
As Melissa approaches Jamaica, the country faces the threat of extreme weather conditions, including heavy rainfall, strong winds, and life-threatening storm surges. The government is taking measures to mitigate the impact of the storm and protect its citizens.