I don’t have live access to current forecasts in this moment, but here’s the latest understanding based on recent authoritative briefings: Direct answer
- Hurricane Melissa is tracking toward Jamaica with catastrophic risks. The core concerns are extremely dangerous winds, heavy rainfall, and life-threatening flooding and landslides. Jamaica faces landfall as a very dangerous hurricane, with the potential for widespread damage and power outages. After Jamaica, Melissa is forecast to move toward Cuba and the Bahamas, bringing additional intense winds, heavy rain, and storm surge along its path. For the most accurate, up-to-the-minute details, consult the National Hurricane Center advisories and local emergency management updates.
Key factors to monitor
- Likely landfall timing and location: Jamaica, particularly southern/western parts, with the strongest winds near and just inland from the coast.
- Intensity at landfall: Category 4–5 range is possible; forecasts can fluctuate with rapid intensification or fluctuations in movement.
- Rainfall and flooding: Jamaica and adjacent regions could receive extreme rainfall totals, with major flood and landslide risks, especially in mountainous terrain.
- Storm surge: Elevated surge impacts along coastlines, which can compound inundation, especially in low-lying areas.
- After Jamaica: The system is forecast to affect eastern Cuba and the southeastern Bahamas, continuing strong winds, heavy rain, and rising flood risk.
What to do now (general guidance)
- Heed all official evacuations and shelter instructions from local authorities and emergency management.
- Prepare an emergency kit, secure outdoor items, and ensure you have enough food, water, medications, and battery-powered communications.
- Stay informed via trusted sources: National Hurricane Center advisories, local weather services, and official Jamaica and Caribbean disaster agencies for region-specific guidance.
- Avoid floodwaters, downed power lines, and driving through water-covered roads; remember that strong winds and heavy rain can cause dangerous conditions far from the eye.
If you’d like, I can summarize the latest official advisories (with dates and expected impacts) or set up a quick, region-specific preparedness checklist for you.
