Hurricane Melissa is poised to cause significant destruction this week as it moves through the Caribbean, with meteorologists closely monitoring the system generating intense 175mph winds and even stronger gusts.
Having reached the Caribbean on Tuesday with a pressure level similar to Hurricane Katrina, the storm has claimed the lives of seven individuals, according to authorities. Fatalities include three in Jamaica, three in Haiti, and one in the Dominican Republic, where one person is currently missing.
The potentially catastrophic impact of Melissa has led weather experts to vigilantly track its path, as it is anticipated to make landfall in multiple nations today.
As per the latest data from the National Hurricane Center (NHC), the hurricane was positioned approximately 115 miles southwest of Kingston, Jamaica, and 290 miles outside Guantanamo, Cuba, earlier today. The storm is projected to reach Jamaica’s southern coast in the coming hours.
Forecasts indicate that Melissa will reach land in the early hours, cutting across the island from the south near St Elizabeth parish to the north around St Ann parish.
Before the storm hit, the government assured the public of its readiness for the impending catastrophic damage. Prime Minister Andrew Holness cautioned that no infrastructure could withstand the conditions brought by a Category 5 hurricane, emphasizing the challenge of swift recovery.
Preceding the storm’s arrival, reports emerged of landslides, fallen trees, and widespread power outages, with Jamaican officials warning of a slow cleanup and assessment process. A storm surge of up to 13 feet is expected along the southern coast of Jamaica, raising concerns about the impact on coastal hospitals.
Health Minister Christopher Tufton mentioned the relocation of patients to higher floors as a precautionary measure. The NHC’s latest update indicated that the storm would have a “catastrophic” impact on Jamaica today.
The wind warning states: “Tropical storm conditions are currently affecting Jamaica, and catastrophic hurricane-force winds are anticipated to commence this morning. Structural failure is likely within the eyewall, especially in elevated areas where wind speeds could be significantly higher.”
Melissa is forecasted to bring excessive rainfall, with estimates ranging from 15 to 30 inches in certain parts of Jamaica and southern Hispaniola by Wednesday.
Another warning highlights the expected rainfall amounts, stating: “Melissa is set to deliver rainfall of 15 to 30 inches in portions of Jamaica and an additional 6 to 12 inches in southern Hispaniola through Wednesday, with localized totals potentially reaching 40 inches. Severe flash flooding and numerous landslides are probable.”
For eastern Cuba, rainfall totals of 10 to 20 inches, with potential local amounts up to 25 inches, are projected, leading to life-threatening flash flooding and potential landslides until Wednesday.
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