Hurricane Melissa Approaches Jamaica

As Hurricane Melissa nears Category 5 status, it is poised to become the worst storm to hit the Caribbean island of Jamaica, surpassing the damage caused by Hurricane Gilbert in 1988.

History of Hurricanes in Jamaica

Jamaica has experienced severe hurricanes, with records showing five major hurricanes, all of which were either Category 3 or 4, dating back to the late 19th century. No Category 5 storm has been recorded hitting the island until now.

Hurricane Gilbert, which struck Jamaica as a Category 4 hurricane, left catastrophic impacts, causing 49 deaths and destroying 100,000 homes, with damages amounting to $700 million.

Strength and Expected Impact of Hurricane Melissa

Hurricane Melissa is characterized by unprecedented strength, with wind speeds reaching 185 miles per hour, making it one of the strongest hurricanes recorded in the Atlantic basin. It is expected to hit the island’s southern side, exposing a longer coastline to higher waves compared to Hurricane Gilbert.

The slow movement of Melissa, ranging between 3 and 5 miles per hour, means the island will endure heavy rain and strong winds for an extended period, increasing the risk of flooding and landslides, particularly in mountainous areas.

Preventive Measures and Preparations

The Jamaican government has issued mandatory evacuation orders for some flood-prone areas, and utility companies are preparing to restore services after the storm passes. Forecasts indicate that most of the island will experience rainfall exceeding one foot, with some areas expecting up to 40 inches of rain.

The Jamaica Public Service Company is preparing to rebuild the electrical grid after the storm, given the expectations of unprecedented damage to infrastructure.

Conclusion

Hurricane Melissa poses a significant challenge to Jamaica, combining immense power with slow movement, increasing risks to life and property. Efforts to mitigate damage include evacuating residents from dangerous areas and preparing for reconstruction after the storm. The hope remains that the storm will pass with minimal damage and that Jamaica will learn new lessons from this harsh experience.