Melissa Intensifies to Category 4, Poised to Cause Catastrophic Flooding in Jamaica and Haiti

Hurricane Melissa Strengthens to Category 4, Threatens Catastrophic Flooding in Caribbean

KINGSTON, Jamaica (AP) – Hurricane Melissa has rapidly intensified into a Category 4 storm and is forecast to reach Category 5 strength, posing a severe threat to the northern Caribbean, particularly Haiti and Jamaica. The U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC) warns of torrential rainfall and perhaps catastrophic flooding across the region.

As of Sunday evening, Melissa was located approximately 115 miles south-southwest of kingston, Jamaica, and 295 miles south-southwest of Guantánamo, Cuba, packing maximum sustained winds of 145 mph (230 kph). The storm is moving west at 5 mph (7 kph).

Jamaica Under Immediate Threat

The NHC anticipates Melissa will make landfall along Jamaica’s southern coast as a major hurricane late Monday or Tuesday morning. Jamie Rhome, the NHC’s deputy director, stressed the urgency, stating, “conditions (in Jamaica) are going to go down rapidly today. Be ready to ride this out for several days.”

Jamaica is bracing for up to 30 inches (760 millimeters) of rainfall, wiht some areas potentially receiving as much as 40 inches (1,010 millimeters).Authorities anticipate extensive damage to infrastructure, widespread power and communication outages, and the isolation of communities. Both Norman Manley International airport in Kingston and Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay have been closed.Evacuations have been ordered in vulnerable areas like Old Harbour bay in St Catherine parish, with officials considering enforcement for those refusing to heed warnings.

Desmond McKenzie, leading jamaica’s disaster response, confirmed that all 650+ shelters across the island are open and well-stocked with supplies. The Meteorological Service of Jamaica warns of potential flooding in every parish, particularly in low-lying areas and near river courses.

Haiti and Cuba Also in the Path

Haiti has already suffered casualties, with at least three deaths attributed to the erratic and slow-moving storm. Southern Hispaniola – encompassing Haiti and the Dominican Republic – is expected to receive meaningful rainfall.

Cuba has issued hurricane warnings for the provinces of Granma, santiago de Cuba, Guantanamo, and Holguin, and a tropical storm warning for Las Tunas. Melissa is expected to be near or over Cuba by late Tuesday, bringing up to 12 inches (300 millimeters) of rain, before potentially moving towards the Bahamas later Wednesday.

Foreign Governments Prepare

Several foreign governments are assisting thier citizens. Antigua and Barbuda are sheltering visiting students at a Kingston hotel, providing a more resilient environment with standby power and water. Students like Jewel Moore, a chemistry student at UWI Mona, are preparing for the storm’s passage, acknowledging that the aftermath and potential travel disruptions will be the biggest challenges.

Key Takeaways:

* Category 4 Hurricane: Melissa is currently a Category 4 hurricane and expected to reach Category 5.
* Jamaica at Highest Risk: Landfall expected late Monday/early Tuesday with catastrophic flooding potential.
* Widespread Impact: Haiti,Dominican Republic,and Cuba are also facing significant threats.
* Evacuations & Shelters: Jamaica has activated all shelters and initiated evacuations in vulnerable areas.
* Travel Disruptions: Major airports in Jamaica are closed.

stay Updated: Monitor the U.S. National Hurricane Center (https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/) for the latest updates and advisories.

What specific vulnerabilities in Haiti’s infrastructure and socio-economic conditions exacerbate the projected impacts of Hurricane melissa?

Current Status & Forecast Track

As of 11:00 PM EDT, October 26, 2025, hurricane Melissa has rapidly intensified into a Category 4 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. Maximum sustained winds are currently at 150 mph (240 km/h) with higher gusts. The storm is located approximately 150 miles (240 km) south of Jamaica and is moving northwest at 10 mph (17 km/h). The projected path indicates a direct threat to Jamaica and Haiti, with landfall expected within the next 24-48 hours.This is a developing tropical cyclone situation requiring immediate attention.

Understanding hurricane vs. Typhoon: A Quick Clarification

It’s vital to understand the terminology. While frequently enough used interchangeably, hurricanes and typhoons are the same weather phenomenon – a tropical cyclone. The difference lies in the region where they occur.According to the World Meteorological Institution, a tropical cyclone with sustained winds of 74 mph (119 km/h) or higher is classified as a hurricane in the North Atlantic and Northeast Pacific, and a typhoon in the Northwest Pacific. Melissa is currently classified as a hurricane.

Projected Impacts: Jamaica

Jamaica is bracing for significant impacts from Hurricane Melissa. Key concerns include:

* catastrophic Flooding: Heavy rainfall, potentially exceeding 20 inches (500 mm) in mountainous areas, is forecast. This will likely lead to widespread flash flooding and river overflows.

* Damaging Winds: Category 4 winds are capable of causing extensive structural damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure. Power outages are almost certain.

* Storm Surge: A dangerous storm surge is expected along the southern and western coasts of Jamaica, potentially reaching heights of 8-12 feet (2.4-3.7 meters) above normal tide levels. Coastal flooding is a major threat.

* Landslides: The combination of heavy rainfall and steep terrain increases the risk of landslides, particularly in the Blue Mountains and other hilly regions.

Projected Impacts: Haiti

Haiti is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of hurricane Melissa due to its ongoing socio-economic challenges and limited infrastructure. The forecast for Haiti is dire:

* Life-Threatening Flooding: haiti is expected to receive even higher rainfall totals than Jamaica, potentially exceeding 25 inches (635 mm). This will exacerbate existing drainage issues and lead to widespread, life-threatening flooding.

* Widespread Damage: The country’s housing stock is largely vulnerable to strong winds.Category 4 winds will likely cause significant damage and displacement.

* Increased Risk of Cholera & Waterborne Diseases: Flooding will contaminate water sources, increasing the risk of outbreaks of cholera and other waterborne diseases. Haiti is still recovering from previous outbreaks.

* Mudslides & Landslides: Deforestation in Haiti makes the country particularly susceptible to mudslides and landslides, which could bury communities and block vital transportation routes.

Evacuation Orders & Preparedness

* Jamaica: Mandatory evacuation orders have been issued for low-lying coastal areas.Residents are urged to heed thes warnings and seek shelter in designated evacuation centers.

* Haiti: Evacuation efforts are underway, but are hampered by logistical challenges and limited resources. The Haitian government is appealing for international assistance.

* Essential Supplies: residents in both countries are advised to stock up on essential supplies, including:

* Non-perishable food

* Water (at least 1 gallon per person per day)

* First-aid kit

* Flashlight and extra batteries

* Radio (battery-powered or hand-crank)

* Medications

* Secure Property: Secure loose objects around