Hurricane Melissa Reaches Major Hurricane Status at Category 3 — Western Jamaica Under Direct Threat

Hurricane Melissa has reached major hurricane status as a Category 3 storm with maximum sustained winds of 120 mph and a central pressure of 955 mb. Western Jamaica is now under a direct threat corridor. The National Hurricane Center’s official track brings Melissa’s centre to within 60 miles of western Jamaica within 72 hours.

A Hurricane Watch has been issued for all of Jamaica. The Jamaica Meteorological Service has warned that conditions will begin to deteriorate along the north-west coast within 48 hours, with tropical storm-force winds possible on the western tip of the island within 36 hours.

ODPEM is coordinating with parish disaster committees across Westmoreland, Hanover, St. Elizabeth, and St. James. Voluntary evacuation orders are currently in place for coastal communities in those parishes. Shelters are opening in designated concrete government buildings, churches, and schools across the western parishes.

Airlines are already modifying their schedules for Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston and Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay. Passengers are urged to contact their carriers immediately. The Port Authority of Jamaica has advised all shipping to seek safe harbour.

The Prime Minister addressed the nation on Sunday evening, urging calm but stressing the seriousness of Melissa’s track. The Jamaica Defence Force has been placed on standby for search and rescue operations.

Residents in low-lying coastal areas should begin evacuating immediately:

• Do not wait for a mandatory order if you live at or near sea level in Westmoreland, Hanover, or St. Elizabeth.
• Drive inland and uphill. Avoid crossing flooded roads or riverbeds.
• Bring medications, identification, and emergency supplies to the shelter.
• Do not leave pets behind if you can safely bring them.
• Once at a shelter, register with the warden and check in with family members.

Melissa’s status as a major hurricane represents a genuine catastrophic threat. At Category 3, the storm can cause devastating damage to even well-constructed homes. All Jamaicans should treat this as a serious emergency.

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