On Monday afternoon, Hurricane Melissa intensified further, reaching maximum sustained winds of 174 miles per hour, as reported by the latest update from the United States' National Hurricane Center (NHC). This formidable strength classifies it as a Category 5 storm, the highest level on the Saffir-Simpson scale, making it the most potent hurricane recorded in the Caribbean in decades.
As of 2:00 PM Eastern Time, the eye of Melissa was positioned approximately 143 miles southwest of Kingston, Jamaica, and 326 miles from Guantánamo, Cuba, advancing slowly towards the west-northwest at a modest pace of 4 mph.
Meteorological authorities anticipate the hurricane will veer northwards in the coming hours, potentially moving over Jamaica tonight and crossing southeastern Cuba by Tuesday night before heading towards the Bahamas.
The NHC has issued warnings of catastrophic winds, torrential rainfall, and flooding expected in Jamaica and eastern Cuba. The system's minimum central pressure of 906 millibars underscores its extraordinary intensity and destructive potential.
"Melissa is projected to reach Jamaica and southeastern Cuba as an extremely powerful hurricane," the report emphasized.
In Cuba, a hurricane warning is in effect for the provinces of Camagüey, Las Tunas, Granma, Santiago de Cuba, Guantánamo, and Holguín, while Ciego de Ávila and Sancti Spíritus remain under cyclone alert. Residents are urged to finalize preparations to safeguard lives and property, especially in coastal and mountainous areas.
Forecasts predict rainfall accumulations of 15 to 20 inches (38 to 50 cm) in eastern Cuba, with the potential for landslides and flash floods. Additionally, there is a risk of storm surges reaching up to 11 feet (over 3 meters) on the southeastern coast, accompanied by destructive waves.
While the threat is significant, meteorologists stress the importance of staying calm and adhering to official instructions. In the coming days, Melissa may pose a severe challenge for Jamaica and Cuba, but it will also be a testament to the resilience of communities accustomed to withstanding the Caribbean's might.
Understanding the Impact of Hurricane Melissa
What makes Hurricane Melissa a Category 5 storm?
Hurricane Melissa is classified as a Category 5 storm due to its maximum sustained winds reaching 174 mph, the highest level on the Saffir-Simpson scale.
What areas are most at risk from Hurricane Melissa?
The areas most at risk include Jamaica and southeastern Cuba, where catastrophic winds, heavy rainfall, and flooding are expected.
How should residents prepare for Hurricane Melissa?
Residents should complete preparations to protect their lives and properties, particularly in vulnerable coastal and mountainous regions.
What is the expected rainfall from Hurricane Melissa?
Eastern Cuba could see rainfall accumulations of 15 to 20 inches, with the risk of landslides and flash flooding.