Hurricane Melissa has escalated into a formidable Category 5 storm, currently positioned south of Jamaica, and is projected to shift its trajectory towards the island by Monday. The Meteorological Service of Jamaica reported that as of 4:00 am, the storm’s center was located approximately 205 kilometers (130 miles) south-southwest of Kingston, or 167 kilometers (104 miles) south of Treasure Beach in St. Elizabeth. Melissa is advancing westward at a speed of 6 km/h (3 mph), with a gradual turn towards the northwest and north anticipated on Monday, followed by a northeastward acceleration starting Tuesday. The hurricane’s core is expected to pass near or over Jamaica late Monday night and into Tuesday. Maximum sustained winds have surged to nearly 260 km/h (160 mph), with even stronger gusts. Further intensification is forecasted for Monday, with potential fluctuations in strength before Melissa makes landfall in southwestern Jamaica early Tuesday as a devastating major hurricane. Hurricane-force winds extend up to 45 kilometers (30 miles) from the center, while tropical-storm-force winds reach outward up to 315 kilometers (195 miles). Outer bands of the storm have already begun affecting southern and eastern sections of Jamaica since Sunday evening, bringing light to moderate rainfall. The Meteorological Service warns of rainfall totals reaching 350-750 mm (15-30 inches) over parts of Jamaica, particularly in central and eastern parishes, with even higher amounts in hilly areas. This deluge is likely to trigger catastrophic flash floods and landslides. Tropical storm conditions are expected to spread across Jamaica on Monday, escalating to hurricane conditions by Monday night or early Tuesday. A life-threatening storm surge, accompanied by massive and destructive waves, is predicted along Jamaica’s south coast, peaking at nine to 13 feet above ground level near and east of the landfall zone. Small craft operators, including fishers, are strongly advised to remain in safe harbor until all warnings are lifted and conditions normalize. The Meteorological Service continues to monitor Hurricane Melissa closely, urging all residents to stay vigilant and heed further updates.
#EyeOnMelissa: Melissa now a Category 5 hurricane, expected to turn towards Jamaica on Monday
