A severe weather map illustrating the projected path of Hurricane Melissa reveals the escalating strength of the storm, with experts cautioning about the potential for “catastrophic impacts” on millions of people. The hurricane, packing winds of 120mph (195 km/h), is intensifying towards a rare Category 5 classification as it slowly progresses northwestward towards Jamaica, aiming for landfall on Tuesday. This sluggish movement at just 5mph is expected to exacerbate the impacts, increasing the risk of flooding, high waves, and extensive damage to coastal areas and structures.
Comparisons have been drawn to the devastating Storm Gilbert of 1988, raising concerns that Hurricane Melissa could surpass its destructive force. Jamaicans are being urged to seek immediate shelter in preparation for what could be a significant weather event. The forecast map, created by Ventusky, provides a glimpse into the unfolding weather patterns over the next few days, showcasing the storm’s progression.
As captured in time-lapse imagery, parts of the map darken as the storm’s fury intensifies, while the US National Hurricane Center (NHC) issues warnings about the imminent arrival of damaging winds and heavy rainfall, potentially leading to life-threatening flash floods and landslides. Melissa is anticipated to near or pass over Jamaica before advancing towards Cuba and the southeastern Bahamas by Wednesday.
Forecasts indicate that Jamaica and southern Hispaniola could receive up to 30 inches (76 centimeters) of rainfall, with localized areas possibly experiencing as much as 40 inches (1 meter) of precipitation. Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness has emphasized the importance of preparedness, urging citizens to secure their homes with sandbags and wooden boards, and stock up on essentials for the challenging days ahead.
Weather alerts have been issued for parts of Haiti, including Port-au-Prince, as well as the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where Melissa’s impact is expected to be felt later in the week before moving towards the Antillas Mayores and into the Atlantic Ocean. Tragically, the storm has already resulted in casualties, with reports of landslides claiming lives in Haiti.
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