Hurricane Melissa Causes Havoc in Jamaica

Hurricane Melissa is causing significant damage in Jamaica, with the country facing its strongest storm in modern history. The hurricane, classified as a category four with wind speeds of 150mph (240km/h), made landfall on Jamaica's coastline earlier with winds exceeding 185mph. It is now moving towards Cuba and then the Bahamas.

Authorities in Jamaica have issued warnings of worsening conditions, with the US National Hurricane Center predicting catastrophic winds, flash flooding, and storm surges. Nearly a third of the country is currently without power, and photos from Jamaica show fallen trees and damaged homes.

The World Meteorological Organization's tropical cyclone specialist, Anne-Claire Fontan, described the situation as catastrophic, with storm surges expected to reach up to four meters high. Jamaican health officials have also warned of potential wildlife threats, such as crocodiles being displaced by flooding and moving into residential areas.

Residents in Jamaica are facing challenges, with reports of roofs being torn off hospitals and individuals trying to rescue others amidst the storm. The slow-moving hurricane is expected to bring heavy rainfall, flash flooding, and the risk of landslides in Jamaica's highland communities.

Before reaching Jamaica, the storm had already caused extreme weather and fatalities in the region. Three storm-related deaths were reported in Jamaica on Monday, involving incidents with falling trees. The hurricane is now heading towards Santiago de Cuba, where authorities have evacuated around 500,000 people from vulnerable areas. Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel expressed concerns about the potential destruction the storm could bring.