Hurricane Melissa has become a significant threat, moving toward Cuba after striking Jamaica with devastating force. The storm made landfall on Tuesday, causing widespread destruction and flooding across the island.
Hurricane Melissa’s Impact on Jamaica
Melissa, classified as a Category 5 hurricane with maximum winds nearing 300 kilometers per hour, hit the western region of Jamaica around midday. This has been noted as the most severe hurricane to impact Jamaica since weather records began.
Prime Minister Andrew Holmes declared the island a “disaster zone.” The parish of Saint Elizabeth, home to about 150,000 residents and known as Jamaica’s “breadbasket,” suffered significant flooding. Local representative Desmond McKenzie reported extensive damage, including impaired hospitals and destroyed structures.
Damages Reported
- Heavy winds destroyed homes and agricultural infrastructure in Saint Elizabeth.
- Residents described catastrophic conditions, with homes completely flooded and essential buildings damaged.
- Kingston, the capital, experienced less severe effects, but concerns about rural areas remain high.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) indicated that Melissa weakened to a Category 4 hurricane but still posed an extreme danger as it departed Jamaica.
Preparations in Cuba
As Hurricane Melissa approaches Cuba, officials in eastern provinces have declared a state of alert. Locals are taking precautionary measures by stockpiling essential supplies, with reports indicating that residents in Santiago de Cuba are preparing for the storm.
Graciela Lamaison, a local resident, noted that while the cyclone is serious, they are determined to cope with the circumstances. Coastal evacuations are underway as the storm nears.
Safety Concerns and Expected Conditions
- Authorities warned of severe coastal flooding and potential landslides.
- Residents have been advised to remain vigilant, especially regarding possible crocodile sightings due to floodwaters.
Hurricane Melissa has already claimed lives, with reported casualties in Jamaica, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic prior to landfall. The United Nations plans to send approximately 2,000 relief kits from Barbados to support Jamaica’s recovery efforts.
Historical Context
The most recent major hurricane to affect Jamaica before Melissa was Hurricane Gilbert in September 1988. Gilbert resulted in 40 fatalities and extensive infrastructure damage.
As Hurricane Melissa bears down on Cuba, it is expected to shift towards the southern Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands after its passage over Cuba. Authorities are on high alert, preparing for substantial impacts as the storm progresses.
