Hurricane Melissa Threatens Devastation Across the Caribbean
Hurricane Melissa is on a path to become a major hurricane, potentially bringing severe weather conditions to parts of the Caribbean. As it intensifies, the storm poses a significant threat to Jamaica and southern Hispaniola, leading to urgent warnings of life-threatening flooding and landslides.
Storm Path and Intensity
The National Hurricane Center in Miami reports that Melissa, currently a category two hurricane, is moving slowly at three miles per hour. Its sustained winds have increased to 100 miles per hour, raising concerns about prolonged rainfall and its hazardous impact over several days.
Warnings Issued Across the Region
Hurricane watches are in effect for Haiti from its border with the Dominican Republic to Port-au-Prince, as Melissa approaches Kingston, Jamaica. Officials in Jamaica emphasized the urgency for residents to prepare, with Evan Thompson from the Meteorological Service of Jamaica stating, “It’s going to sit there pouring water while it’s barely moving. And that is a significant challenge that we have to be aware of.”
Forecasted Impact
Jamaica is bracing for landfall early next week, with predictions of 15-30 inches of rain in Jamaica and southern Hispaniola, potentially reaching 40 inches in some areas. The Jamaica Information Service has activated emergency protocols, prioritizing water supply to vital facilities.
Current Casualties and Risks
Already, the Dominican Republic has reported one death due to the storm, while Haiti has seen three fatalities from landslides and fallen trees. The National Hurricane Center warns of catastrophic flash flooding and landslides in southwestern Haiti.
Preparations in Other Areas
Residents in eastern Cuba, the Southeast Bahamas, and the Turks and Caicos Islands are advised to remain vigilant. The U.S. Navy has ordered evacuations at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, with hurricane conditions expected by midweek and potential rainfall exceeding one foot.
This article was originally written by www.npr.org
