Hurricane Melissa intensified into a powerful Category 4 storm on Monday, prompting mass evacuations in Jamaica’s capital, Kingston, and warnings of catastrophic flooding and landslides across the northern Caribbean. Meteorologists cautioned that the hurricane could strengthen even further as it barrels west-northwest towards the Cayman Islands and Cuba.
Rapid intensification over warm Caribbean waters
Melissa’s winds surged to over 215 km/h overnight, driven by unusually warm sea-surface temperatures and low wind shear. The US National Hurricane Center (NHC) reported that the storm’s eye had become more defined and symmetrical—classic signs of a strengthening major hurricane. Forecast models predict that Melissa could reach category 5 intensity before weakening later in the week.
Evacuations and emergency measures in Jamaica
Authorities in Kingston and along Jamaica’s northern coast ordered mandatory evacuations of low-lying areas as torrential rain and powerful winds began lashing the island. Shelters have been opened in schools and community centres, and the government has imposed a nationwide curfew to prevent looting and ensure safety. Prime Minister Andrew Holness urged residents to take warnings seriously, calling Melissa “one of the most dangerous systems to approach Jamaica in a generation.”
Regional alerts across the northern Caribbean
Neighbouring Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and Cuba have issued hurricane warnings as the storm’s outer bands already bring heavy rainfall and flash flooding. The Cayman Islands and parts of eastern Cuba are expected to face the storm’s full force within 48 hours. Coastal storm surges of up to 5 metres could inundate parts of Jamaica’s north coast, while widespread power outages and communication breakdowns are anticipated.
Humanitarian and economic concerns
Aid agencies are on high alert, with emergency stockpiles and medical teams mobilised in anticipation of post-storm recovery needs. Jamaica’s tourism industry, a vital economic pillar, has been temporarily paralysed as hotels evacuate guests and airports suspend flights. Early estimates suggest potential damages exceeding US $1 billion if the storm maintains its current trajectory and strength.
Newshub Editorial in Caribbean – 27 October 2025
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