Hurricane Melissa, currently classified as a Category 4 hurricane, is on a trajectory towards Jamaica and Cuba, posing a significant threat of 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 speeds of up to 140 miles per hour (220 kilometers per hour), Melissa is anticipated to intensify as it approaches Jamaica, where it is forecasted to make landfall by Monday night or Tuesday morning before moving towards southeastern Cuba by late Tuesday.
In preparation for the approaching hurricane, Jamaican authorities have urged residents to seek shelter in nearly 900 designated locations across the country, facilitating assistance for those willing to evacuate. Prime Minister Andrew Holness issued mandatory evacuation orders for Port Royal in Kingston and six other vulnerable areas on Sunday evening.
Desmond McKenzie, the minister of local government, expressed concerns about the potential devastating impact of the impending flooding, emphasizing the vulnerability of low-lying areas in Kingston. He highlighted the imperative need for communities to take necessary precautions.
As a precautionary measure, both international airports have been closed in anticipation of the storm’s impact. Despite evacuation efforts, some residents have chosen to remain in their homes, refusing to board evacuation buses.
Douglas Butler, a local boat captain in Port Royal, explained his decision to stay, emphasizing preparedness and self-sufficiency in weathering the storm. However, authorities continue to encourage all residents to prioritize safety and adhere to evacuation protocols.
The NHC has projected that Melissa could bring between 15 to 30 inches of rainfall to Jamaica and southern Hispaniola, with localized amounts potentially reaching up to 40 inches. Eastern Cuba is expected to experience rainfall ranging from 10 to 15 inches, with possible localized totals of up to 20 inches.
Jamaica’s information minister, Dana Morris Dixon, assured that the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency stands ready to provide assistance, with several international partners already committing support to address the crisis. Morris Dixon acknowledged the unprecedented nature of the projected rainfall figures, emphasizing the urgency for preparedness and response measures.
