Residents of Bluefields and surrounding areas in Westmoreland, Jamaica, are being urged to prepare for potentially life-threatening storm surges as Hurricane Melissa approaches the island. The storm surges, characterized by a rapid rise in sea levels due to wind and atmospheric pressure changes, are expected to impact the south coast significantly. Evan Thompson, Principal Director of the Meteorological Services Branch in Jamaica’s Ministry of Water, Environment, and Climate Change, emphasized the severity of the situation during a press briefing at the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) on October 27. Thompson warned that even if the hurricane’s center moves off the west coast, south coastal areas of Westmoreland will still face dangerous storm surges. He drew parallels to past hurricanes, such as Michelle in 2007 and Wilma, which caused significant rainfall and storm surges along Jamaica’s southwestern coastline. Residents are advised to complete their preparations immediately, as large and destructive waves, peaking at nine to 13 feet above ground, are anticipated along the south coast tonight and on Tuesday, particularly near Melissa’s potential landfall zone.