Hurricane Melissa, now classified as a Category 4 hurricane, is on a trajectory towards Jamaica and Cuba, anticipated to trigger severe floods, landslides, and storm surges in the region, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC) announcement on Sunday.
With sustained winds reaching 140 miles per hour (220 kilometers per hour), Melissa is forecasted to intensify as it approaches Jamaica, where it is projected to make landfall either Monday night or Tuesday morning. The hurricane is also expected to impact southeastern Cuba by late Tuesday.
In response, Jamaican authorities have urged residents to seek shelter in nearly 900 designated locations across the country, offering support for those opting to evacuate. Prime Minister Andrew Holness issued mandatory evacuation orders for Port Royal in Kingston and six other areas on Sunday night to ensure residents’ safety.
Minister of local government, Desmond McKenzie, expressed concerns about the potential devastating impact of flooding, particularly in low-lying areas like Kingston. Both international airports have been shut down in preparation for the storm’s arrival.
Despite evacuation efforts, some individuals have chosen to remain in their homes, with reports indicating resistance to boarding evacuation buses. Local boat captain Douglas Butler stated his decision to stay behind, emphasizing the importance of having essential supplies during the storm.
The NHC has warned that Melissa could bring between 15 to 30 inches of rainfall to Jamaica and southern Hispaniola, with localized amounts possibly reaching 40 inches. Eastern Cuba is expected to receive 10 to 15 inches of rain, with potential local accumulations of up to 20 inches.
Jamaica’s information minister, Dana Morris Dixon, highlighted the readiness of the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency to provide assistance, noting the unprecedented rainfall predictions and the support pledged by various international partners.