Hurricane Melissa Intensifies to Category 5, Threatens Jamaica with Catastrophic Impact
Hurricane Melissa has strengthened into a Category 5 storm, posing a severe threat to Jamaica with life-threatening conditions expected.
Hurricane Melissa has intensified into a Category 5 storm, marking the most powerful hurricane ever to directly threaten Jamaica. As of Monday morning, the storm was located southwest of Kingston, moving slowly at 3 mph, with sustained winds of 165 mph.
The National Hurricane Center has issued warnings of catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding from Monday through Tuesday, with rainfall totals expected to reach 15 to 30 inches, and up to 40 inches in localized areas.
Jamaican authorities have ordered evacuations in seven vulnerable communities and opened over 800 shelters. However, as of Sunday night, only 218 people had sought refuge.
After impacting Jamaica, Melissa is forecast to weaken to a Category 3 hurricane as it approaches eastern Cuba by Tuesday evening. The storm is expected to continue affecting the region, with potential impacts on the Bahamas and other areas.
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