Jamaica Warns of Hurricane Melissa’s Destructive Threat

Jamaican authorities are urging residents to move to higher ground and emergency shelters as Hurricane Melissa approaches landfall. Prime Minister Andrew Holness warns the Category 5 storm could cause massive devastation across the island. The US National Hurricane Center reports the storm is about 150 miles from Kingston with maximum sustained winds of 175 miles per hour.

Hurricane Melissa Threatens Unprecedented Damage

This potentially record-breaking hurricane has already claimed seven lives across the Caribbean—three in Jamaica, three in Haiti, and one in the Dominican Republic. Scientists note that human-driven climate change is making such intense storms more common in the region. The hurricane’s slow movement at just three miles per hour means prolonged exposure to destructive conditions for affected areas.

Officials emphasize that Hurricane Melissa could rival the devastation of historic storms like Maria and Katrina. The NHC warns of catastrophic flash flooding, landslides, and destructive winds that could cause extended power outages and widespread infrastructure damage. Forecasts predict up to 40 inches of rainfall in some areas, with storm surges potentially reaching 13 feet along Jamaica’s southern coast.

Evacuation Resistance Despite Urgent Warnings

As detailed in the complete version, there are several key factors to consider.

Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie expressed concern that only 133 of Jamaica’s 880 shelters are currently occupied. “They should be seeing people now,” McKenzie stated, urging residents in vulnerable parishes to seek higher ground immediately. Despite these warnings, some residents remain hesitant to evacuate.

Roy Brown, a Port Royal resident, told reporters, “I am not moving. I don’t believe I can run from death.” Fisherwoman Jennifer Ramdial echoed this sentiment, explaining her reluctance to leave her home. Prime Minister Holness addressed this resistance during a press briefing, emphasizing that evacuation efforts are about “the national good of saving lives.”

Regional Impacts and Climate Connections

After impacting Jamaica, Hurricane Melissa is expected to cross eastern Cuba on Tuesday night. Meteorologist Kerry Emanuel highlighted that global warming contributes to storms rapidly intensifying like Melissa has, significantly increasing rainfall potential. Climate scientist Daniel Gilford confirmed that “human-caused climate change is making all of the worst aspects of Hurricane Melissa even worse.”

The storm’s approach has already caused tragic preparation-related deaths in Jamaica, while neighboring countries report additional casualties and missing persons. As Hurricane Melissa continues its path, officials stress that the window for safe evacuation is closing rapidly, urging all residents in vulnerable areas to seek shelter immediately.