A severe weather map tracking Hurricane Melissa reveals the anticipated intensification of the storm, with experts cautioning about the potential “catastrophic impacts” affecting millions of people. The hurricane, currently boasting 120mph (195 km/h) winds, is on a trajectory towards potentially reaching Category 5 status as it slowly progresses northwest towards Jamaica, with landfall projected for Tuesday. The sluggish pace of just 5mph heightens the risk of prolonged flooding and significant coastal and structural damage.
Comparisons have been drawn to the devastating Storm Gilbert of 1988, raising concerns about the severity of Hurricane Melissa. Jamaicans are urged to seek shelter immediately in preparation for what could be a significant weather event. The forecast map, provided by Ventusky, illustrates the anticipated developments in the coming days, with the National Hurricane Centre (NHC) warning of the potential for devastating winds and flash flooding leading to landslides.
According to NHC projections, Melissa is forecasted to track near or over Jamaica early Tuesday before moving across Cuba towards the southeastern Bahamas. The storm is currently positioned approximately 125 miles south-southwest of Kingston, Jamaica, and 310 miles south-southwest of Guantanamo, Cuba. Anticipated rainfall amounts of up to 30 inches in Jamaica and southern Hispaniola have been confirmed, with localized areas possibly experiencing as much as 40 inches.
In a national address, Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness emphasized the importance of preparedness amid rising anxieties among citizens. Residents are advised to fortify their homes using sandbags and wooden boards and stock up on essentials to brace for potentially challenging days ahead. Weather warnings are also in effect for parts of Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and eastern Cuba, where Melissa’s impact is expected to be felt before continuing through the Antillas Mayores into the Atlantic.
Tragic incidents have already been reported, with landslides triggered by Hurricane Melissa claiming lives in Haiti. The nation’s Civil Protection agency has confirmed the casualties.