Hurricane Melissa, classified as a Category 5 storm, continues its slow and destructive journey through the western Caribbean. With maximum sustained winds of 160 mph (260 km/h) and a minimum central pressure of 913 millibars, the storm remains a formidable threat, according to the 8:00 a.m. (Eastern Time) update from the United States' National Hurricane Center (NHC).
Described by experts as "extremely dangerous," the hurricane is currently positioned at latitude 16.4°N and longitude 78.0°W, approximately 135 miles (220 kilometers) southwest of Kingston, Jamaica, and 320 miles (515 kilometers) southwest of Guantanamo, Cuba.
The system is moving at a sluggish pace westward at 4 mph (6 km/h), but is expected to shift towards the northwest and north overnight before accelerating northeastward by Tuesday.
Jamaica Faces Direct Hit as Eastern Cuba Stays on High Alert
Jamaica's government has issued a hurricane warning as the nation prepares for destructive winds, storm surges, and torrential rain. The NHC warns that the most severe impacts will occur from tonight into Tuesday, with surges reaching up to 13 feet (4 meters) and even stronger gusts in mountainous regions.
In Cuba, the provinces of Granma, Santiago de Cuba, Guantanamo, and Holguín are under hurricane warnings, while Las Tunas is on tropical storm alert. Civil Defense authorities are urging residents to finalize emergency plans before nightfall, anticipating hurricane-force winds and heavy rainfall in the eastern part of the country starting Tuesday.
Catastrophic Winds and Rainfall
Hurricane hunter aircraft from NOAA and the U.S. Air Force have confirmed Melissa's status as a Category 5 hurricane, with sustained winds of 160 mph and even stronger gusts. The NHC does not rule out further strengthening before the storm potentially makes landfall in Jamaica.
Hurricane-force winds extend up to 28 miles (45 kilometers) from the center, while tropical storm-force winds reach as far as 195 miles (315 kilometers), meaning the effects will be felt well before the hurricane's eye arrives.
The rainfall poses a significant threat:
- Jamaica: 15 to 30 inches (380 to 760 mm) of rain expected.
- Eastern Cuba: 10 to 15 inches (250 to 380 mm), with local totals up to 20 inches (500 mm).
- Haiti: 8 to 16 inches (200 to 400 mm).
The NHC has warned of "catastrophic flash flooding and numerous landslides" in the mountainous regions of eastern Cuba and the Sierra Maestra.
Destructive Storm Surges and Waves
Melissa may trigger storm surges between 9 and 13 feet (3 to 4 meters) above sea level along Jamaica's southern coast, and between 6 and 9 feet (2 to 3 meters) along Cuba's southeastern coast. This phenomenon is likely to be accompanied by "large and destructive waves," with the potential to cause severe damage to coastal communities.
The Turks and Caicos Islands and the southeastern Bahamas could also face storm surges and heavy rainfall starting Wednesday.
Latest Developments Since Early Morning Update
The hurricane retains its Category 5 status, though its central pressure has dropped from 917 mb to 913 mb, indicating further strengthening. The storm's center has shifted slightly westward (from 77.8°W to 78.0°W). Its proximity to Jamaica has increased, now just 135 miles (220 kilometers) from Kingston. Dangerous conditions are already affecting the island and will worsen throughout the day. The projected path towards eastern Cuba remains, with a direct impact likely between Tuesday night and early Wednesday.
Melissa is the most powerful Category 5 hurricane to threaten Cuba in recent years. Cuban authorities, in coordination with the Meteorological Institute and Civil Defense, have initiated preventive evacuations in low-lying areas and are mobilizing resources towards the eastern region of the country.
The NHC warns that "the combination of storm surge, rain, and wind could have catastrophic consequences in Jamaica and southeastern Cuba."
FAQs about Hurricane Melissa's Impact
What are the expected impacts of Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica?
Jamaica is expected to experience destructive winds, storm surges up to 13 feet, and torrential rainfall between 15 to 30 inches, leading to potential catastrophic flooding and damage.
How is Cuba preparing for Hurricane Melissa?
Cuban authorities have issued hurricane warnings for several provinces, initiated preventive evacuations, and are mobilizing resources to prepare for hurricane-force winds and heavy rainfall.