Hurricane Melissa Heads to Cuba After Causing Destruction in Parts of Jamaica

After Cyclone Montha, it is Hurricane Melissa that garners all attention. It is one of the strongest Atlantic hurricanes, causing extensive damage. According to the National Hurricane Center, more than 700,000 people have been evacuated in Cuba, with the storm expected to make landfall soon. The hurricane struck near New Hope in southwestern Jamaica with sustained winds of up to 185 mph (298 km/h), above the threshold for a Category 5 storm. 

In Jamaica, one victim was electrocuted during storm preparations, while two were killed due to a downed tree. Authorities stated it will take several days for a full assessment of the damage, as power outages have affected much of the island. Additionally, people have been cautioned that the recovery process will be slow due to damage to hospitals and infrastructure. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) calls Hurricane Melissa the “storm of the century” for Jamaica. 

After causing massive destruction in Jamaica, Hurricane Melissa has weakened slightly to a Category 4 storm and is heading toward Cuba. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel warned citizens to brace themselves for heavy rain and strong winds. The hurricane is expected to impact the city of Santiago de Cuba. Officials have ordered around 500,000 people to relocate to higher ground as a precautionary measure. Since the Bahamas and Bermuda are in the projected path, evacuation is underway.