KINGSTON, Jamaica - Hurricane Melissa, a monstrous Category 4 storm, has slammed into Jamaica with terrifying force, unleashing a barrage of destructive winds, torrential rainfall, and life-threatening storm surges that have brought the Caribbean nation to a standstill.
Catastrophic Landfall
The hurricane made landfall near the capital city of Kingston with sustained winds reaching a devastating 130mph (215km/h), placing it firmly within the Category 4 classification on the Saffir-Simpson scale. Meteorologists had been tracking Melissa's rapid intensification throughout the week, watching with growing concern as it transformed from a tropical disturbance into a major hurricane.
Widespread Destruction
Early reports emerging from the island paint a picture of widespread devastation:
- Roofs torn from buildings across multiple parishes
- Widespread power outages affecting hundreds of thousands
- Flooding in low-lying coastal areas reaching dangerous levels
- Emergency services forced to suspend operations due to extreme conditions
- Crucial infrastructure including roads and communication networks severely compromised
Emergency Response Mobilised
Jamaican authorities had initiated massive evacuation efforts in vulnerable areas prior to the storm's arrival, moving residents from flood-prone zones and coastal communities into designated shelters. The government has activated its National Emergency Operations Centre, coordinating response efforts across all parishes.
Prime Minister Andrew Holness addressed the nation in a pre-recorded message, urging citizens to 'remain in safe locations until official all-clear notices are issued' and warning that the most dangerous conditions would persist for several hours after the eye's passage.
Regional Impact and Forecast
While Jamaica bears the brunt of Melissa's fury, neighbouring nations including Cuba and the Bahamas remain on high alert. The hurricane's projected path suggests it will continue northwestward, potentially affecting the Cayman Islands and eastern Cuba in the coming days.
Tourist destinations across Jamaica have implemented emergency protocols, with hotels and resorts directing guests to reinforced safe areas. The country's international airports have suspended all operations until further notice.
This devastating storm serves as a stark reminder of the increasing intensity of Atlantic hurricane systems, with climate scientists noting that warmer ocean temperatures are contributing to more rapid intensification of tropical cyclones throughout the region.
