Hurricane Melissa has rapidly intensified into a Category 4 storm, boasting maximum sustained winds of up to 140 mph (220 km/h) as it approaches Jamaica, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC). As of Sunday, Melissa is approximately 110 miles (180 km) south of Kingston, with forecasts predicting it will make landfall in Jamaica by Monday night or Tuesday morning. Following its passage over Jamaica, the hurricane is expected to impact southeastern Cuba late Tuesday, heightening concerns of catastrophic flooding, landslides, and storm surges in the region.
In preparation for the impending storm, Jamaican authorities announced the closure of both international airports and activated 881 shelters nationwide. Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie expressed grave concerns, stating, “Many of these communities will not survive the flooding,” emphasizing the vulnerability of Kingston’s low-lying areas. A decision regarding the issuance of a mandatory evacuation order is anticipated later today, though some residents have chosen to remain in their homes despite the threats.
Local sentiments vary, with individuals like Douglas Butler, a boat captain from Port Royal, voicing a desire to ride out the storm rather than evacuate. He stated, “As long as I have my food, I can eat. That is the most important thing.”
The NHC indicates that Jamaica may receive between 15 to 30 inches of rain, with localized areas potentially recording up to 40 inches. Eastern Cuba is projected to experience 10 to 15 inches of rain. Minister of Information Dana Morris Dixon highlighted that the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency is ready to assist, with several international partners already pledging support. She warned, “We will experience the intensity of the hurricane tomorrow night Monday going into Tuesday. This is rainfall we’ve not seen before.”
The approaching Hurricane Melissa underscores the ongoing vulnerability of Caribbean nations to severe weather events. The collective response from communities showcases the spirit of resilience and unity as residents prepare to face the unprecedented challenges posed by this powerful storm. Assisting one another will be vital as they navigate through the storm’s impacts and work toward recovery.
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