This Tuesday, Jamaica is bearing the brunt of Hurricane Melissa as it lashes the island with fierce winds, torrential rain, and severe flooding, as captured in dramatic videos shared by residents and local media outlets.
Social media is flooded with imagery depicting the cyclone's might: uprooted trees, roofs torn off, and streets turned into rivers, while Jamaicans strive to find shelter from the storm.
In certain regions, the gusty winds have halted vehicle movement and caused widespread power outages.
The Jamaica Observer has reported that the main entrance of the Mandeville Regional Hospital, located in Manchester parish, remains inaccessible due to floodwaters.
The Southern Regional Health Authority (SRHA) announced that alternative access is available through Hargreaves Avenue, next to Cecil Charlton Hall, as emergency operations continue.
Local authorities have urged residents to stay indoors and heed weather warnings, as ongoing heavy rains and gusts may escalate damage in the coming hours.
The United States National Hurricane Center (NHC) confirmed that Melissa made landfall in southwestern Jamaica near New Hope, with a central pressure estimated at 892 millibars, marking it as one of the most intense hurricanes to hit the Atlantic coast.
The NHC warned that the situation is extremely dangerous and potentially life-threatening, advising residents to remain in shelters while the hurricane's eye passes over the island and reminding them that winds will intensify shortly after the eye moves on.
Furthermore, they reported that at 1:00 p.m. local time, the hurricane's center was approximately 40 kilometers southeast of Negril and 235 kilometers south of Guantanamo, Cuba, moving north-northeast at about 15 km/h.
Hurricane Melissa's Impact on Jamaica
How is Hurricane Melissa affecting Jamaica?
Hurricane Melissa is impacting Jamaica with violent winds, heavy rainfall, and significant flooding, leading to power outages and blocked roads.
What precautions are being advised for Jamaican residents?
Authorities are urging residents to stay indoors, follow weather alerts, and remain in shelters as the hurricane moves through the region.
Where did Hurricane Melissa make landfall in Jamaica?
Hurricane Melissa made landfall in southwestern Jamaica near the area of New Hope.
What is the current status of Hurricane Melissa?
As of 1:00 p.m. local time, the hurricane's center is located 40 kilometers southeast of Negril, Jamaica, and 235 kilometers south of Guantanamo, Cuba, moving north-northeast.