Hurricane Melissa has intensified into the most powerful storm of 2025, with wind speeds surging to 175 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC). The Category 5 hurricane is now bearing down on Jamaica, posing a severe threat to the island nation. The NHC reported that Melissa’s winds escalated by 10 mph in just one day, signaling its rapid intensification. Tropical storm conditions are already affecting Jamaica, with catastrophic hurricane-force winds expected to commence tonight and persist into early Tuesday. As of this afternoon, the storm’s center was located 145 miles southwest of Kingston, moving at a sluggish pace of 3 mph. Despite the ongoing US government shutdown, NOAA hurricane hunters have been braving the storm to gather critical data. Meteorologist Andy Hazelton, who was aboard one of the aircraft, described the experience as ‘the most turbulent hurricane I’ve ever been in.’ The mission was cut short due to extreme updrafts and downdrafts, highlighting the storm’s ferocity. Authorities are urging residents to take immediate precautions as Hurricane Melissa continues to strengthen.