Hurricane
Historic Landfall in Jamaica
Hurricane Melissa slammed into Jamaica as a Category 5 storm with winds near 185 mph,
one of the most powerful Atlantic landfalls ever recorded. The island’s southwest coast was hit hardest,
with officials warning of “9–13 feet of storm surge” and up to “30–40 inches of rain.”
At least three people died in Jamaica, part of seven deaths across the Caribbean.
Prime Minister Andrew Holness declared the nation a “disaster area,” citing severe damage to homes and hospitals.
Approach to Cuba
Weakened but still dangerous, Melissa approached Cuba as a Category 3 hurricane with 115 mph winds.
Authorities evacuated 500,000 people, warning of “life-threatening floods and landslides” and up to “10–12 feet of storm surge.”
Regional Outlook
The storm now heads toward the central Bahamas, with officials urging continued vigilance.
Its slow pace and massive intensity make Melissa especially destructive, increasing the risk of prolonged flooding and widespread damage.
