For several days, Tropical Storm Melissa has been battering the Caribbean, and today it has officially strengthened into a powerful Category 4 hurricane, rapidly gaining strength and posing a serious threat to Jamaica and the northern Caribbean.
With sustained winds exceeding 150 km/h, the storm is advancing slowly toward the island, a movement that heightens the risk for coastal regions and extends the time during which torrential rains and strong waves can cause destruction. Meteorologists warn that the hurricane’s eye could pass dangerously close to Jamaica’s northern coast within the next 24 to 36 hours, bringing storm surges and flash floods.
Authorities have issued evacuation alerts in seven high-risk communities, while rescue teams are on standby. Schools and airports have been temporarily closed, and residents are urged to seek shelter and prepare for possible power and communication outages.
Are we facing an unstoppable disaster for Jamaica?
The answer is yes. The combination of extreme winds, relentless rainfall, and the storm’s slow movement creates the perfect scenario for catastrophic flooding, landslides, and long-term disruptions. As Melissa advances without showing signs of weakening, Jamaica braces for one of the most powerful storms of the season.
