Hurricane Melissa, now classified as a Category 4 hurricane, is moving towards Jamaica and Cuba, posing a significant threat of severe flooding, landslides, and storm surges, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC). The storm currently boasts sustained winds reaching 140 miles per hour (220 kilometers per hour) and is expected to gain strength as it approaches Jamaica, with landfall projected for Monday night or early Tuesday. It is forecasted to impact southeastern Cuba by late Tuesday.
In preparation for the impending disaster, Jamaican authorities have urged residents to seek refuge in nearly 900 available shelters across the country, offering assistance to those looking to evacuate. Prime Minister Andrew Holness has issued mandatory evacuation orders for Port Royal in Kingston and six other vulnerable areas to ensure the safety of residents.
Desmond McKenzie, the local government minister, expressed grave concern about the potential impact of the flooding, highlighting the vulnerability of Kingston to such natural disasters. The minister emphasized the high risk of flooding in low-lying areas, stressing that no community in Kingston is immune to the threat.
With the closure of both international airports, the region is bracing for the anticipated onslaught of Hurricane Melissa. Despite evacuation efforts, some residents have chosen to remain in their homes, with reports indicating that individuals have refused to board evacuation buses.
The NHC has warned that Melissa is expected to unleash between 15 to 30 inches of rainfall on Jamaica and southern Hispaniola, with localized amounts possibly reaching 40 inches. Eastern Cuba is also expected to experience significant rainfall, with anticipated totals of 10 to 15 inches and potential local accumulations of up to 20 inches.
Jamaica’s information minister, Dana Morris Dixon, has assured the public that the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency is prepared to offer assistance, with various international partners already pledging their support in the face of the unprecedented rainfall projections.
The situation remains critical as Melissa continues its path, prompting a unified response from local and international agencies to mitigate the potential devastation.
