Hurricane Melissa, a formidable Category 4 storm on the Saffir-Simpson scale, is advancing perilously close to Jamaica and is anticipated to impact eastern Cuba between Tuesday and Wednesday.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) in the United States issued advisory 20A, noting that as of 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time, the hurricane's eye was positioned at 16.3 degrees north latitude and 76.4 degrees west longitude. This places it roughly 121 miles southeast of Kingston, Jamaica, and 280 miles southwest of Guantanamo, Cuba, with maximum sustained winds reaching 140 mph and even stronger gusts.
Melissa is currently moving westward at a slow pace of 4 mph, but a shift northward, then northeastward, is expected between Monday and Tuesday. This trajectory could bring it very near or directly over Jamaica before it turns towards southeastern Cuba.
Current Warnings
A hurricane warning is in effect for Jamaica, where catastrophic flooding and landslides are expected to begin today and persist for several days. There is also a hurricane watch for the Cuban provinces of Granma, Santiago de Cuba, Guantánamo, and Holguín. Southwestern Haiti, from the Dominican Republic border to Port-au-Prince, is under a hurricane watch as well.
The NHC cautioned that Melissa could trigger storm surges of 9 to 13 feet (up to 4 meters) along Jamaica's southern coast, accompanied by destructive waves. In Cuba, a significant rise in sea levels is possible in the eastern provinces.
Heavy Rainfall and Flooding Risks
This meteorological system could unleash between 15 and 30 inches of rain (up to 75 centimeters) over Jamaica and southern Haiti, with isolated totals reaching 40 inches (more than a meter).
In eastern Cuba, rainfall is expected to range from 150 to 300 millimeters, with peaks of 450 millimeters, potentially causing flash flooding and landslides in mountainous areas.
Cuba on High Alert
Cuban meteorological and local authorities have urged heightened precautionary measures, especially in provinces under watch. The island's civil defense and meteorological services are preparing for a direct or near-direct impact from Melissa starting Tuesday night.
The hurricane is projected to maintain its "major" Category 4 status for at least another 48 hours before it starts to slightly weaken as it approaches southeastern Cuba.
The NHC warned that waves generated by Melissa will affect Haiti, Jamaica, eastern Cuba, and the Cayman Islands starting today, creating dangerous rip currents and surf conditions for boats and swimmers alike.
FAQs about Hurricane Melissa's Impact
What areas are under a hurricane warning due to Hurricane Melissa?
A hurricane warning is in effect for Jamaica. Additionally, a hurricane watch is in place for certain provinces in eastern Cuba and southwestern Haiti.
What are the expected impacts of Hurricane Melissa on Cuba?
Eastern Cuba is expected to experience significant rainfall, with potential for flash flooding and landslides, as well as a rise in sea levels due to storm surges.
How strong are the winds of Hurricane Melissa?
Hurricane Melissa has maximum sustained winds of 140 mph, with even stronger gusts.