Hurricane Melissa Devastates Jamaica, Threatens Cuba in Record-Breaking Storm Surge

Breaking the silence of the Caribbean skies — Hurricane Melissa roars into history

Hurricane Melissa, a record-breaking Category 5 storm, has slammed into Jamaica, leaving behind a trail of destruction and fear. With sustained winds reaching 190mph, Melissa is now heading toward Cuba, prompting mass evacuations and emergency alerts across the region.

The National Hurricane Center has confirmed that Melissa is one of the strongest hurricanes ever recorded in the Atlantic hurricane season, surpassing previous benchmarks set by storms like Hurricane Gilbert and Hurricane Ivan. Experts warn that the climate crisis is intensifying the frequency and strength of such storms, making Caribbean nations more vulnerable than ever.

In Kingston, Jamaica’s capital, residents faced flooded streets, power outages, and damaged infrastructure. Emergency crews worked overnight to rescue families trapped in their homes. The government has declared a state of emergency and urged citizens to seek shelter immediately.

Meteorologists predict that Hurricane Melissa will make landfall in eastern Cuba within the next 24 hours. Authorities have begun evacuating coastal towns and reinforcing buildings to withstand the storm’s impact. The Cuban Meteorological Institute has issued a red alert, warning of storm surges, landslides, and torrential rainfall.

Scientists link the severity of Hurricane Melissa to global warming, which fuels warmer ocean temperatures — a key ingredient in hurricane formation. The Caribbean has seen an increase in extreme weather events, and Melissa’s intensity is a stark reminder of the urgent need for climate action.

International aid organizations are mobilizing resources to support affected communities. Relief efforts include food distribution, medical assistance, and temporary shelters. The United Nations has pledged support, emphasizing the importance of global solidarity in the face of climate disasters.

As Hurricane Melissa continues its path toward Cuba, residents brace for impact, hoping for safety and swift recovery. The storm’s legacy will likely reshape disaster preparedness strategies across the Caribbean.