Hurricane Melissa’s Eye Passes Over Jamaica, Sets Course for Cuba | Weather Update

Kingston, Jamaica – Hurricane Melissa, initially categorized as a Category 5 storm, brought catastrophic conditions to Jamaica on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, before weakening slightly to a Category 4 as it moved towards Cuba. Teh storm’s impact has already been devastating, with reported fatalities and widespread infrastructural damage across the Caribbean.

Jamaica Grapples with “Storm of the Century”

The eye of Hurricane Melissa made landfall near New Hope, Jamaica, approximately 62 kilometers (39 miles) south of Montego Bay. Sustained winds reached a harrowing 295 kilometers per hour (185 miles per hour), surpassing the threshold for a Category 5 hurricane.Authorities have termed this event the “storm of the century”, highlighting the unprecedented intensity of the weather system.

The Caribbean region has endured days of relentless downpours, triggering flash floods, landslides, and extensive damage. Tragically, the hurricane has claimed seven lives – three in Jamaica, three in Haiti, and one in the Dominican Republic, with another person remaining missing in the Dominican Republic.

Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie emphasized the nation’s preparedness while acknowledging the sheer force of a Category 5 hurricane. Emergency services manager Leiska Powell of the Red Cross reported substantial damage to Jamaica’s western regions. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) estimates that at least 1.5 million people in Jamaica are facing the repercussions of this disaster.

Cuba Prepares for Impact, Evacuations Underway

As of Wednesday, October 29, 2025, Hurricane Melissa, still a powerful Category 4 storm, is projected to move towards Cuba. Evacuation orders have been issued, and large-scale movements of people from coastal areas are underway.

More than 600,000 residents are being evacuated from coastal areas,including Santiago de Cuba,the nation’s second-largest city. Authorities in the eastern province of Holguin are coordinating the evacuation of over 200,000 people, with an additional 200,000 slated for removal from Banes.Deputy Prime Minister Eduardo Martínez described the approaching storm as “unprecedented and very hazardous”.

Country	Alert Level	Estimated Rainfall	Evacuation Numbers (approx.)
Jamaica	Category 4 (Previously 5)	Over 700mm (27.5 inches)	1.5 million potentially impacted
Cuba	Category 4 Warning	Up to 510mm (20 inches)	600,000+
Haiti	Tropical Storm Warning	Important Rainfall	Ongoing assessment

Global Response and Ongoing Risks

Jamaica has received pledges of support from the United Nations, the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, France, and fellow Caribbean nations. The UN humanitarian agency, OCHA, prioritized efforts to save lives, particularly addressing the risk of waterborne diseases due to widespread flooding.

Authorities in Jamaica issued an unusual warning regarding crocodiles displaced by rising floodwaters. Residents were cautioned that the reptiles may venture into residential areas. The storm’s slow pace, hovering at 5-7 kilometers per hour (3-4 miles per hour), has exacerbated the risk of devastating impacts. Meteorologists note that slow-moving major hurricanes frequently rank among the deadliest and most destructive storms on record.

Understanding Hurricane Preparedness

the increasing frequency and intensity of hurricanes are linked to climate change, as warmer ocean temperatures fuel these powerful storms. Preparedness is key to minimizing damage and loss of life. This includes having a well-stocked emergency kit, developing an evacuation plan, and staying informed about weather updates. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1st to November 30th, with peak activity typically occurring between mid-August and late October. Learn more about hurricane preparedness from NOAA.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hurricane Melissa

• What category is Hurricane Melissa currently? Hurricane Melissa is currently a Category 4 hurricane, having previously reached Category 5 status.
• What areas have been most affected by Hurricane Melissa? Jamaica has experienced significant devastation, and Cuba is bracing for impact. Haiti and the Dominican Republic have also been affected.
• What is the biggest threat posed by this hurricane? The biggest threats are catastrophic flash flooding, landslides, and widespread damage from high winds.
• How are authorities responding to the crisis? Evacuations are underway, and international aid is being mobilized. Local governments are coordinating relief efforts.
• Why is the slow movement of this hurricane particularly dangerous? A slow-moving hurricane prolongs the duration of intense rainfall and wind, increasing the potential for catastrophic damage.

What are your thoughts on the international response to this crisis? Do you believe enough is being done to mitigate the impacts of climate change and prevent future disasters like this? Share your perspectives in the comments below.

What category hurricane is Melissa currently, and what sustained wind speeds are associated with this category?

Current Status & Track of Hurricane Melissa (October 28, 2025)

As of 20:00 UTC on october 28, 2025, the eye of Hurricane Melissa has passed directly over Jamaica and is currently tracking northwest towards Cuba. The storm maintains Category 2 hurricane status with sustained winds of 105 mph (165 km/h) and gusts up too 130 mph (210 km/h). The central pressure is currently 965 millibars. This is a developing situation, and residents in both Jamaica and Cuba are urged to heed all warnings from local authorities. Real-time hurricane tracking is available via the National Hurricane Center (NHC).

Impact on Jamaica: initial Reports

Jamaica experienced meaningful impacts as the eye of Hurricane Melissa moved across the island. Preliminary reports indicate:

* Widespread Power Outages: The majority of Jamaica is currently without power due to downed power lines and infrastructure damage. Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) crews are assessing the damage, but full restoration is expected to take several days.

* Flooding & Landslides: Heavy rainfall associated with the hurricane has caused widespread flooding, notably in low-lying areas. Landslides have been reported in the mountainous regions, blocking roads and isolating communities.

* Coastal Surge: A significant storm surge impacted coastal areas, causing flooding and erosion. Reports of damage to beachfront properties are increasing.

* Airport Closures: Norman Manley International Airport (KIN) and Sangster International Airport (MBJ) were both closed earlier today and remain closed until further notice.

* Communication Disruptions: Cell phone service is intermittent across the island, hindering communication efforts.

Cuba Braces for Impact: Forecast & Preparations

Cuba is now in the direct path of Hurricane melissa. The forecast track indicates a potential landfall along the northern coast of Cuba, likely between Havana and Matanzas provinces, within the next 12-24 hours.

* Hurricane Warning: A Hurricane warning is in effect for the provinces of Havana, matanzas, Ciego de Ávila, and camagüey. This means hurricane conditions are expected within the warning area.

* Evacuations: Mass evacuations are underway in vulnerable coastal areas. Cuban authorities are prioritizing the evacuation of residents from low-lying regions and those living in structurally unsound buildings.

* Strengthening Defenses: Cuba’s Civil Defence is actively reinforcing infrastructure,clearing drainage systems,and preparing emergency shelters.

* Potential Rainfall: Hurricane Melissa is expected to bring torrential rainfall to Cuba, with accumulations of 8-12 inches (200-300 mm) possible, especially in mountainous areas. This will exacerbate the risk of flooding and landslides.

* Storm Surge Threat: A perilous storm surge is forecast for the northern coast of Cuba, possibly reaching heights of 5-8 feet (1.5-2.4 meters) above normal tide levels.

Key Terms & Definitions

Understanding hurricane terminology is crucial for staying informed:

* Hurricane Watch: Conditions are possible within the specified area, usually issued 48 hours before anticipated effects.

* Hurricane Warning: Hurricane conditions are expected within the specified area, usually issued 36 hours before anticipated effects.

* Storm Surge: An abnormal rise of water generated by a storm, causing significant coastal flooding.

* Sustained Winds: The average wind speed over a one-minute period.

* gusts: brief, intense increases in wind speed.

* Category (Saffir-Simpson Scale): A 1-5 rating based on a hurricane’s sustained wind speed, indicating potential damage.

Past Context: Hurricane Impacts in the caribbean

The Caribbean region is particularly vulnerable to hurricanes. In 2017, Hurricanes Irma and maria caused catastrophic damage across several islands, highlighting the devastating potential of these storms. Understanding past events helps inform preparedness efforts and mitigation strategies. The increasing intensity of hurricanes is a growing concern linked to climate change and rising sea temperatures. Analyzing historical hurricane tracks and intensities provides valuable data for forecasting and risk assessment.

Resources for Staying Informed

* National hurricane Center (NHC): https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/ – Official source for hurricane forecasts and warnings.

* Jamaica Meteorological Service: [https://www.metservice.gov.jm/](https://www.metservice.gov.jm