Jamaica Faces Catastrophe as Hurricane Melissa Approaches
As Hurricane Melissa barrels toward Jamaica with 130 mph winds, the island nation prepares for potential mass destruction. The Category 4 storm is expected to make landfall within 48 hours, bringing torrential rains, 12-foot storm surges, and life-threatening conditions. Authorities urge immediate evacuations for coastal and low-lying areas.
Government Issues Urgent Evacuation Orders
Prime Minister Andrew Holness delivered a grave warning in a national address: “Hurricane Melissa could cause catastrophic flooding, landslides, and structural damage. If you’re in a vulnerable zone, evacuate now.”
Early impacts include:
– Heavy rains flooding Kingston and Montego Bay
– Power outages in multiple parishes
– Panic buying depleting grocery and fuel supplies
Residents Scramble to Prepare
Long lines form at gas stations and hardware stores as Jamaicans rush to secure homes and stock essentials. “This storm feels different—people are truly frightened,” said Portmore shop owner Marva Brown.
The Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) assists evacuations, but clogged roads and overwhelmed shelters complicate efforts.
Tourism Industry Shuts Down Ahead of Impact
Jamaica’s economy faces a severe blow as:
– Resorts in Negril and Ocho Rios close and relocate guests
– Cruise lines reroute ships
– Airlines cancel flights
Recovery could take months, disrupting the island’s vital tourism sector.
Climate Change Intensifies Hurricane Threats
Hurricane Melissa rapidly intensified from a tropical storm to Category 4 in under 36 hours—a trend linked to warmer ocean temperatures. “This is the new normal,” says climatologist Dr. Michelle Williams. “We must adapt to stronger storms.”
International Aid Readies Response
The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) and nations like the U.S. and UK stand by for relief efforts. However, airport closures may delay critical aid.
Officials Urge Immediate Action
Richard Thompson, Director of Disaster Preparedness, pleads: “Evacuate now—your life matters more than property.”
Jamaica now waits, hoping to avoid worst-case devastation as Hurricane Melissa closes in.
Follow NextMinuteNews for live updates on Hurricane Melissa.
