Catastrophic Impact Feared as Hurricane Melissa Bears Down on Jamaica

Hurricane Melissa has slowed its crawl south of Jamaica. Jamaican officials have warned of catastrophic damage as the powerful Category 4 storm closes in towards the island.

Local news outlets report that heavy rains and fierce winds are already battering eastern parishes, including Portland, St Thomas, and parts of Kingston, with conditions expected to worsen as Melissa moves closer between Monday night and Tuesday morning.

The Jamaican Meteorological Service warned of rainfall totals of 15–30 inches, likely to cause flash floods, landslides, and a storm surge of 9 to 13 feet along the south coast.

In a press conference this afternoon, Minister of Energy, Telecommunications and Transport in Jamaica, Daryl Vaz, cautioned citizens to prepare for severe impact. “We did not get a direct hit from Beryl, and we are due to get a direct hit from a category 4, possibly a category 5,” he said.

“There’s always been a hesitancy when evacuation orders are given; do not take this lightly. This may be the one,” Vaz added.

Meanwhile, Belize’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade, Culture, and Immigration said on X that it has been in close contact with Jamaican authorities regarding the safety of Belizeans, particularly students studying in Jamaica. “The Government of Jamaica has assured that all regional and international students, including Belizeans, residing in UWI Halls of Residence will continue to be accommodated and cared for. No foreign students have been asked to evacuate, as the first priority remains their safety and wellbeing,” the Ministry stated.