A Cuban residing in Jamaica has shared images with reporter Yosmany Mayeta depicting the powerful winds associated with Hurricane Melissa. This storm, now a Category 4 hurricane, boasts maximum sustained winds of 150 mph (240 km/h) and a central pressure of 906 mb.
The footage captures the intense force of the wind, visibly battering trees as Melissa continues its slow movement northwestward through the Caribbean.
The latest advisory from the National Hurricane Center reports that Melissa's core is positioned 12 miles (20 km) east of Montego Bay, Jamaica, and approximately 200 miles (325 km) southeast of Guantanamo, Cuba.
Potentially Devastating Path Ahead
While there may be some fluctuations in intensity before impacting Jamaica, the forecast predicts that the system will remain an extremely powerful major hurricane as it heads towards Jamaica and southeastern Cuba, maintaining hurricane strength as it affects the Bahamas.
The wind field illustrates the storm's vast scope. Already, the southeastern coast of Cuba is experiencing significant swells, with waves reaching 8 to 13 feet (2.5 to 4 meters) high, causing moderate coastal flooding in low-lying areas.
Marine and Coastal Warnings
Experts have warned that maritime conditions will continue to deteriorate as the hurricane approaches. With a central pressure of just 899 mb, the cyclone has led to widespread power outages, roof collapses, river overflows, and landslides in various regions of the country.
Local authorities have urged residents to stay in their shelters as violent gusts and waves over 10 feet (3 meters) crash against both southern and northern shores.
Emergency management officials have described the situation as "catastrophic," expressing concerns that material damages could be extensive across the western region of Jamaica.
Severe Rainfall and Potential Flooding
The storm is also generating waves between 9 and 13 feet along Jamaica's southern coast and could produce swells of 8 to 12 feet along southeastern Cuba's coastline.
Projected rainfall totals are equally alarming, with expectations of 25 to 30 inches (over 700 millimeters) in Jamaica and 10 to 20 inches (250 to 500 millimeters) in eastern Cuba, significantly increasing the risk of catastrophic flooding and landslides.
Hurricane Melissa: Key Questions and Answers
Where is Hurricane Melissa currently located?
As of the latest update, Hurricane Melissa's core is situated 12 miles (20 km) east of Montego Bay, Jamaica, and about 200 miles (325 km) southeast of Guantanamo, Cuba.
What are the expected impacts of Hurricane Melissa on Jamaica?
Jamaica is expected to face severe impacts including violent winds, significant rainfall of 25 to 30 inches, and coastal waves between 9 and 13 feet, leading to potential flooding and landslides.
How severe is Hurricane Melissa?
Hurricane Melissa is currently a Category 4 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 150 mph and a central pressure of 906 mb, making it an extremely powerful storm.