Jamaica Braces for Powerful Hurricane Melissa

Category 4 Storm Expected to Hit by Tuesday

Hurricane Melissa is on a direct path towards Jamaica, expected to make landfall as a category 4 storm with winds exceeding 130 mph. This storm poses a significant threat, with the potential for severe damage and flooding.

Current Status and Predictions

Movement: Currently moving northwest.
Landfall: Expected by Tuesday, according to the US National Hurricane Center (NHC).
Category: A category 4 hurricane, classified as extremely dangerous, capable of causing catastrophic damage.
Weakening: Expected to weaken before reaching Jamaica, but the impact will still be severe.

Warnings and Preparations

Residents are urged to take immediate action to protect themselves and their homes. The NHC advises completing preparations as soon as possible, as tropical storm-strength winds and rain are already expected to hit central Jamaica, including the capital, Kingston.

Expected Impacts

Rainfall: Up to 30 inches of rain.
Storm Surges: As high as 13 feet above ground.
Flooding: Life-threatening flash floods and landslides.

Government Advisories

Jamaica's Prime Minister, Andrew Holness, has urged residents to stay calm but be prepared. He advised:

Securing homes with sandbags and wooden boards.
Stocking up on essentials.

Regional Warnings

Warnings are also in effect for:

Haiti (including Port-au-Prince)
Dominican Republic
Eastern Cuba

Melissa is expected to bring similar effects to these areas by the middle of next week. Landslides caused by the hurricane have already killed two people in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Forecasted Path

Wednesday: Expected to pass over Cuba, weakening to a category 3 storm.
Subsequent Path: Forecast to move through the Antilles Mayores and out into the Atlantic.

Climate Change and Hurricane Activity

Scientists attribute the increasing frequency and severity of hurricanes to climate change. Warmer oceans produce more moisture in the air, fueling hurricane formation.

The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicted above-normal activity for this year's Atlantic hurricane season, citing:

Warmer seas
Stronger monsoon activity around West Africa, where Atlantic storms often form.