The United States National Hurricane Center (NHC) has extended the hurricane warning to Cuba's provinces of Las Tunas and Camagüey as Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm, unleashes catastrophic force on Jamaica's southern coast.
With sustained winds of 185 mph (295 km/h) and a central pressure of 892 millibars, Melissa remains an exceptionally dangerous cyclone.
By 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time, Melissa's eye was located at coordinates 17.9N 77.9W, approximately 60 kilometers southeast of Negril, moving north-northeast at a speed of 15 km/h.
"Catastrophic winds, flash flooding, and storm surges are occurring on the island," the NHC stated in its latest advisory.
Impending Danger for Cuba
The Cuban government, working alongside the NHC, has issued a hurricane warning for the provinces of Granma, Santiago de Cuba, Guantánamo, Holguín, and Las Tunas, as well as a tropical storm warning for Camagüey.
U.S. meteorologists predict that Melissa will traverse southeastern Cuba early Wednesday morning, primarily impacting the eastern provinces, before moving towards the southeastern and central Bahamas, which are also under a hurricane warning.
"Hurricane conditions are expected in Jamaica within the next few hours, in eastern Cuba tonight, and in the Bahamas on Wednesday," the NHC reported.
Dire Impact on Jamaica
The hurricane's eye has already made landfall in western Jamaica, with local authorities reporting destructive winds, torrential rain, and extreme waves.
The NHC warns that winds could be up to 30% stronger in mountainous areas and cautions residents not to venture outside during the eye's passage, as the system's back wall can bring a sudden return of violent gusts.
Weather conditions are rapidly deteriorating in the island's southern and western regions, posing an extreme risk of flooding and landslides.
Record-breaking Surges and Flooding
Jamaica's southern coast is facing a potentially deadly storm surge, with sea levels potentially rising 9 to 13 feet (up to 4 meters) above ground level, accompanied by large, destructive waves.
In the northwest, near Montego Bay, sea level increases of 2 to 4 feet (about one meter) are anticipated.
Rainfall associated with Melissa is expected to bring 15 to 30 inches (38 to 76 cm) to Jamaica, with local maximums reaching up to 40 inches (100 cm).
In eastern Cuba, accumulations of 10 to 20 inches (25 to 50 cm) are forecasted, with peaks of 25 inches (63 cm), which could lead to flash flooding and numerous landslides.
Threat to Eastern Cuba
Cuba's eastern provinces are beginning to feel the hurricane's indirect effects, with increasing wind and rain since the afternoon.
Cuban authorities advise securing windows and roofs, staying away from trees and unstable structures, and paying close attention to official warnings.
The system's slow progression will prolong hazardous conditions, particularly in low-lying coastal areas of southern Granma, Santiago de Cuba, and Guantánamo, where surges of 8 to 12 feet (2.5 to 3.5 meters) could occur.
Forecasted Path
According to the NHC, Melissa's eye will completely cross Jamaica during the day, then move over southeastern Cuba early Wednesday morning, and subsequently over the Bahamas the following day.
Although little change in intensity is expected before fully impacting Jamaica, the hurricane will continue to be a major system at least until Thursday as it moves into the western Atlantic.
"Melissa will reach Cuba as an extremely dangerous hurricane and will still be very powerful as it moves over the Bahamas," the advisory noted.
Next Update
The National Hurricane Center will release its next full advisory at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time, providing new updates on the storm's trajectory, intensity, and current warnings for the region.
Meanwhile, authorities in Jamaica and Cuba urge residents to remain in safe shelters and not to venture out under any circumstances until conditions improve significantly.
Understanding Hurricane Melissa's Impact
What is the current status of Hurricane Melissa?
Hurricane Melissa is currently a Category 5 storm with sustained winds of 185 mph, posing a significant threat as it impacts Jamaica and moves towards Cuba and the Bahamas.
How are Jamaica and Cuba being affected by Hurricane Melissa?
Jamaica is experiencing catastrophic damage with destructive winds, heavy rain, and dangerous storm surges. Cuba is bracing for similar conditions, particularly in its eastern provinces.
What precautions are being advised for residents in affected areas?
Residents are advised to secure their homes, avoid unstable structures, and stay updated with official warnings. It is crucial to remain in safe shelters until conditions have improved.