KINGSTON, Jamaica — October 25, 2025:
Jamaica is on high alert as Hurricane Melissa strengthens slowly over the western Caribbean, posing a serious threat of heavy rainfall, flooding, and landslides across the island. The system, which developed earlier this week, has now reached hurricane status, moving at a near-stationary pace of just 1 mph (2 km/h).
Meteorologists warn that Melissa’s sluggish movement could make it one of the most rain-intensive storms in recent memory, even if it does not make direct landfall.
Slow but Dangerous Development
Melissa formed in the central Caribbean during the week leading up to October 22, initially appearing weak but steadily gaining organization. The Meteorological Service of Jamaica (Met Service) issued a tropical storm watch by midweek, emphasizing the risk of extended rainfall due to the storm’s slow forward motion.
By October 25, Melissa had intensified into a hurricane. Forecasts from the National Hurricane Center (NHC) and international meteorological outlets project rainfall totals between 15 and 25 inches, with isolated areas seeing up to 35 inches. The system also poses a storm surge risk of up to 10–11 feet in coastal areas if its core tracks close to Jamaica’s shoreline.
Government and Community Preparedness
The Government of Jamaica has activated hundreds of emergency shelters across all parishes, pre-positioned food and water supplies, and mobilized the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM).
Prime Minister Andrew Holness urged citizens, particularly those living in flood-prone or hillside communities, to take all warnings seriously and move to safety if advised.
Despite the official alerts, communities across the island are meeting the storm with a mix of preparation and prayer. Jamaica’s long-standing faith is evident, with many residents confident that divine protection will guide the nation through.
A resident in St. Mary expressed his conviction simply:
“God already keep the storm back. It might circle ‘round, but it can’t come through unless Him say so.”
Across the island, sandbags are being laid, drains cleared, and churches filled with prayer. It is a picture of readiness grounded in faith — a balance of physical and spiritual preparedness that has long defined Jamaica’s resilience.
Impact on Real Estate and Building Resilience
Hurricane Melissa’s arrival comes at a time of unprecedented growth in Jamaica’s real estate sector, with new developments rising from Kingston to Montego Bay. The storm serves as a stark reminder of the importance of building resilience into Jamaica’s housing and construction practices.
Architects and developers are increasingly incorporating hurricane-resistant features such as elevated foundations, reinforced roofing, and traditional Jamaican design principles — wide eaves, ventilated ceilings, and open verandas — that naturally withstand tropical conditions.
Experts note that preparedness is not only about emergency supplies but about designing for longevity and safety. Good construction, they argue, must account for the island’s topography, drainage, and environmental realities — ensuring that homes remain secure through both economic and climatic storms.
Echoes of Past Hurricanes
Melissa’s trajectory mirrors that of several past systems that threatened Jamaica but ultimately veered away.
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Hurricane Matthew (2016): Once forecast to hit Jamaica directly, it shifted east before striking Haiti.
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Tropical Storm Tomas (2010): Warned to pass over eastern Jamaica but changed course at the last moment.
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Hurricane Elsa (2021) and Hurricane Michelle (2001): Both brought heavy rainfall and flooding without landfall.
These near misses highlight the uncertainty of Caribbean storm tracks, where small deviations of 50–100 km can determine whether an island faces devastating winds or heavy outer rainbands.
A Nation Anchored by Faith
As Hurricane Melissa lingers offshore, Jamaica faces the coming hours with measured calm. While preparedness remains crucial, faith continues to anchor the national spirit.
Churches across the island are holding prayer services, and families are staying tuned to weather updates while securing their homes. The collective mood is one of confidence — shaped by experience, fortified by belief.
“The storm may come, but the rock of faith stands firm.”
Jamaica has faced many storms before — Gilbert, Ivan, Dean, and others — and has rebuilt every time. Melissa will be another test, but also another testament to the island’s resilience, unity, and grace.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and reflects current conditions and public reports as of publication. Readers are advised to follow official updates from Jamaica’s Meteorological Service and local authorities for accurate weather and safety information.