Hurricane Melissa Intensifies as Jamaica Prepares for Impact

Hurricane Melissa has rapidly intensified into a Category 4 storm, posing a significant threat to Jamaica as it approaches the island nation. Residents have been urged to “seek shelter now” as forecasters predict the storm could reach Category 5 status upon landfall. According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), the hurricane is expected to bring catastrophic flooding and landslides, making preparations essential for safety.

The storm has already claimed at least three lives in Haiti and one in the Dominican Republic while it was still a tropical storm. Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness emphasized the importance of safety, urging residents to “avoid taking unnecessary risks.” Jamaica is expected to experience a direct hit from the hurricane between Monday night and Tuesday morning, with southeastern Cuba also in the storm’s path later on Tuesday.

Forecast and Expected Impact

The NHC has warned that Hurricane Melissa could further strengthen in the coming days. A forecast discussion indicated that “additional intensification is forecast over the next day or so, followed by fluctuations in intensity.” The storm is anticipated to be a powerful hurricane when it makes landfall, bringing destructive winds and severe flooding.

NHC deputy director Jamie Rhome stated in an online briefing, “It now appears virtually certain that the core of a powerful hurricane will move over Jamaica. With it will come long duration, destructive winds, catastrophic flooding, loss of power, loss of communication, and communities will be cut off for several days in the aftermath.” Residents should complete preparations to protect life and property as the storm approaches.

Forecasts predict rainfall amounts of 15-30 inches in Jamaica and 8-16 inches in southern Hispaniola through mid-week. The NHC has warned that local storm totals could reach up to 40 inches in some areas.

Current Situation and Background

As of October 26, 2025, Hurricane Melissa was located approximately 115 miles south-southwest of Kingston, Jamaica, with maximum sustained winds of 145 mph. Residents on the island began to feel the effects of the storm on Sunday evening, with reports of wet and windy conditions.

Melissa emerged as a tropical storm on October 21 before experiencing rapid intensification. Its maximum sustained winds increased dramatically from 70 mph on Saturday morning to 145 mph by Sunday morning. This rapid strengthening coincided with exceptionally high sea surface temperatures across the Caribbean, which are among the warmest on record. According to Yale’s Climate Connections, human-caused climate change has significantly increased the likelihood of such unusual warmth.

Meteorologist Kieran Bhatia noted that Melissa is the fourth storm this year to undergo rapid intensification of at least 50 knots within 24 hours, tying 2025 with previous years that have seen a similar occurrence.

Residents across Jamaica are preparing for the storm’s arrival, with many seeking shelter as the hurricane nears. The urgency is palpable, as the island braces for what could be one of the most severe storms in recent memory.

As the situation evolves, officials urge all residents and visitors in affected areas to stay informed and follow safety protocols to minimize risks associated with this dangerous hurricane. For the latest updates, visit the National Hurricane Center’s official website.