Noah Bergren, a prominent U.S. meteorologist and chief of night forecasts at FOX 35 Orlando, has issued a grave warning regarding Hurricane Melissa. The powerful storm is heading towards Jamaica and could become the first Category 5 hurricane to strike the island.
"My worst fears are coming true. This is set to be a historic and deadly hurricane for Jamaica, one of the worst natural disasters in recent times," Bergren shared on his X account, where he has amassed a large following for his accurate weather analyses.
Bergren, an alumnus of Penn State University with experience in Paducah, Kentucky, cautioned that "Melissa is poised to challenge the mathematical limits of intensity by Monday."
The hurricane is predicted to reach sustained winds exceeding 170 miles per hour (over 270 km/h), with gusts surpassing 200 mph (320 km/h). Satellite imagery already shows a perfectly defined eye, indicating extreme strengthening.
"This will be the first Category 5 hurricane in history to hit Jamaica. The only thing limiting its intensity is itself," he stated.
Bergren reminded that the Atlantic's record for the highest sustained wind speed is held by Hurricane Allen (1980) at 190 miles per hour. However, he warned that Melissa might challenge this historical record.
The expert emphasized the human impact of the storm: "There are real people on the other end of this. It isn't just about meteorology. Lives, businesses, schools... everything will be severely affected. Jamaica will need as much humanitarian aid as possible after this."
Jamaican authorities have issued evacuation warnings for coastal areas as the population braces for what experts describe as a potentially catastrophic storm.
After Melissa passes over Jamaica, it is expected to reorganize and continue its powerful path towards Cuba. Eastern provinces remain under Cyclonic Alert. Authorities have started evacuating residents from coastal and river-adjacent areas.
Flooding and landslides have already been reported since Friday following the initial rains. The main concerns are not only the resilience of structures but also the scarcity of food and the lack of information many have about this weather phenomenon, as frequent power outages in the country keep people in the dark.
FAQs on Hurricane Melissa's Impact
What is the predicted intensity of Hurricane Melissa?
Hurricane Melissa is expected to reach sustained winds over 170 mph, with gusts above 200 mph.
How are Jamaican authorities responding to Hurricane Melissa?
Jamaican authorities have issued evacuation alerts for coastal areas in preparation for the potentially catastrophic storm.
What concerns are there beyond the hurricane's physical damage?
Beyond structural damage, there are concerns about food scarcity and the lack of information due to power outages.