A powerful Hurricane Melissa is charging toward Bermuda as a major Category 3 storm, prompting urgent preparations across the island nation while Caribbean communities begin assessing widespread damage.
Bermuda Braces for Direct Impact
The Bermuda Weather Service has issued a hurricane warning as Melissa strengthens to Category 3 status with maximum sustained winds reaching 120mph. Forecast models indicate the storm's eye could pass dangerously close to or directly over the island overnight Wednesday into Thursday.
Government officials have announced precautionary measures including:
- Closure of all public schools on Wednesday
- Activation of emergency response teams
- Opening of designated shelters across the island
- Suspension of public transportation services
Caribbean Nations Recover from Initial Blow
Before setting its sights on Bermuda, Hurricane Melissa unleashed torrential rains and destructive winds across Jamaica and the Cayman Islands. Jamaican authorities reported significant flooding in low-lying areas, particularly affecting the parishes of St. Thomas and Portland.
"We've seen extensive damage to infrastructure and agriculture, particularly in eastern regions," confirmed Jamaica's Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management.
Tracking the Storm's Path
According to the latest updates from the National Hurricane Centre in Miami, Melissa continues moving north-northwest at approximately 13mph. Meteorologists warn that while some fluctuations in intensity are possible, the hurricane is expected to remain a dangerous major hurricane as it approaches Bermuda.
Residents in Bermuda are urged to complete all preparations by Wednesday afternoon, as tropical-storm-force winds are forecast to reach the island by evening. The Royal Gazette reports heightened activity at supermarkets and hardware stores as islanders stock up on essential supplies.
Regional Impact and Warnings
Beyond Bermuda, the massive storm system continues to generate dangerous conditions across the western Atlantic:
- Life-threatening surf and rip currents along southeastern US coastlines
- Heavy rainfall warnings for the Bahamas through Wednesday
- Shipping advisories for vessels across the hurricane's expansive path
Meteorological services across the region continue to monitor Melissa's progression, with updates expected throughout the day as the hurricane approaches its closest point to Bermuda.
