Hurricane Melissa Approaches Jamaica as Storm Intensifies to Category 5

Footage captured by storm chaser and meteorologist Jeremy DeHart has revealed the striking interior of Hurricane Melissa as it heads towards Jamaica with winds nearing 200 mph. This storm is on track to become the strongest hurricane to impact the island nation since record-keeping began in 1850. The video, shared on social media platform X, showcases a towering cylindrical wall of clouds rising approximately 10,000 feet high, with clear skies visible above.

Hurricane Melissa, classified as a Category 5, is expected to make direct landfall in Jamaica by the morning of October 3, 2023. According to Fox Weather, it will bring winds of at least 150 mph, which could lead to devastating consequences for the island. Meteorologist Greg Diamond warned, “All of Jamaica will be impacted in some way,” emphasizing that the eyewall’s winds could flatten structures and inflict extensive damage on infrastructure.

Historically, Jamaica has faced significant storms, but Melissa dwarfs past hurricanes. The most formidable storm prior to this was Hurricane Gilbert, a Category 3 hurricane that struck in 1988. Gilbert caused damage to at least a fifth of the island’s buildings, with losses estimated at $2.5 billion and resulted in 45 fatalities. In contrast, Melissa is poised to inflict even greater destruction.

The storm is anticipated to bring torrential rainfall, with projections indicating that up to 40 inches could fall, leading to catastrophic flooding and numerous landslides throughout Jamaica. As preparations intensify, mandatory evacuations have been ordered in affected areas. Local authorities are particularly concerned about storm surges that could reach up to 13 feet, compounding the risks of flash flooding.

Airports across Jamaica are closed, and power outages are already occurring as the storm approaches. Melissa began affecting the island on October 2, 2023, and its impact is expected to intensify as it nears landfall.

After impacting Jamaica, Hurricane Melissa is forecasted to move on to southeastern Cuba and subsequently affect Haiti. The storm will continue its path through the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos before moving out to sea. By the end of Wednesday, it is likely to have moved into the Atlantic and could make a final landfall in Bermuda on October 5, 2023.

While the mainland United States, particularly Florida, is not expected to experience direct effects from Melissa, residents along the panhandle should remain vigilant for strong rip currents and rough seas. As the storm progresses, officials continue to assess and respond to the unfolding situation, preparing for potential rescue and recovery operations in the aftermath.