Hurricane Melissa Strikes Jamaica as Meteorologists Warn of Severe Impact

A powerful Category 5 hurricane, known as Hurricane Melissa, is poised to impact Jamaica with unprecedented force, featuring winds of nearly 200 mph. This storm is already being recognized as the most intense hurricane to approach the island since record-keeping began in 1850. The storm’s eye was captured in stunning footage by meteorologist Jeremy DeHart, showcasing a clear view of its cylindrical wall of clouds, which reaches heights of 10,000 feet.

On Sunday, DeHart shared the footage on X, noting, “As clear of an eye as you will see in the Atlantic basin.” Despite the violent winds of 175 mph swirling within its eyewall, the video revealed blue skies and sunshine above the storm’s towering clouds. Meteorologists anticipate Melissa will make landfall in Jamaica by Tuesday morning, bringing catastrophic conditions to the island.

Historically, Jamaica has faced significant storms, with Hurricane Gilbert in 1988 being the most damaging to date. That storm made landfall as a Category 3 hurricane, causing extensive damage to approximately one-fifth of Jamaica’s buildings, resulting in losses estimated at $2.5 billion and claiming the lives of 45 people. In stark contrast, Melissa’s projected winds of at least 150 mph indicate a far more severe threat.

Meteorologists from Fox Weather predict that all areas of Jamaica will feel the storm’s impact. According to meteorologist Greg Diamond, “Across western Jamaica, the eyewall’s 150-plus mph winds will have the potential to flatten buildings and cause extensive and long-lasting damage to all infrastructure in the area.”

The island could also receive up to 40 inches of rain, leading to catastrophic flooding and numerous landslides. As the storm progresses, it is expected to move past Jamaica by Wednesday, continuing to southeastern Cuba and then affecting Haiti, along with the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos, before heading out to sea.

Hurricane Melissa’s path suggests that it may enter the Atlantic by the end of Wednesday, potentially making its final landfall on Thursday in Bermuda. While the mainland United States, including Florida, is not expected to experience serious effects from Melissa, residents could face strong rip currents and rough seas along the panhandle.

As of Monday, Jamaica is already feeling the storm’s effects, with all airports on the island shut down and power lines beginning to fall due to the winds. Mandatory evacuations have been ordered in several areas, as storm surges are anticipated to reach heights of up to 13 feet, accompanied by severe flash flooding risks.

Authorities and meteorologists are closely monitoring Hurricane Melissa as it continues its dangerous trajectory, urging residents to heed warnings and prepare for a potentially devastating event.