Jamaica is bracing for the full force of Hurricane Melissa — a Category 5 behemoth unleashing catastrophic winds, torrential rain, and life-threatening storm surges as it creeps toward the island’s southern coast.
The National Hurricane Center’s 5 a.m. advisory placed Melissa about 115 miles west-southwest of Kingston, with maximum sustained winds near 175 miles per hour and gusts surpassing 200 mph. Moving north-northeast at just 5 mph, the storm’s slow pace is amplifying its destructive impact.
Forecasters warn that the hurricane’s eyewall — its most violent core — will sweep across Jamaica later today, producing “catastrophic” winds and severe flash flooding. Authorities say total structural failure is possible in some areas, especially in higher elevations where gusts could intensify by 30 percent.
Rainfall of 15 to 30 inches is expected across most of the island, with isolated totals near 40 inches likely to trigger deadly landslides and widespread inundation. Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston has already reported sustained winds of 39 mph and gusts near 60 mph, with similar conditions in Montego Bay.
A storm surge of 9 to 13 feet is forecast along Jamaica’s southern coastline, accompanied by towering, destructive waves.
Melissa is projected to cross southeastern Cuba on Wednesday and move toward the southeastern Bahamas later in the day. Hurricane warnings remain in effect for Jamaica, parts of Cuba, and the central and southeastern Bahamas, while a watch has been issued for the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Officials urge residents in warning zones to complete any remaining preparations immediately and remain sheltered until conditions improve.
Meteorologists describe Melissa as one of the most intense storms ever recorded in the western Caribbean — surpassing even 1988’s Hurricane Gilbert, long remembered for its devastation.
Regional leaders have extended messages of solidarity and pledged assistance to Jamaica as the nation braces for what could be its most destructive storm in decades.
Key Messages for Hurricane Melissa
Advisory 28: 5:00 AM EDT Tue Oct 28, 2025
- Jamaica:
Remain sheltered! Catastrophic flash flooding, landslides, and destructive winds will continue through today, causing widespread infrastructure damage, power and communication outages, and isolated communities. Total structural failure is possible near the path of Melissa’s center. Along the southern coast, life-threatening storm surge and damaging waves are expected through the day. Failure to act may result in serious injury or loss of life. - Haiti and the Dominican Republic:
Catastrophic flash flooding and landslides are expected across southwestern Haiti and southern portions of the Dominican Republic through midweek. In Haiti, extensive damage and isolation of communities is likely. Tropical storm conditions are expected later today and Wednesday. - Eastern Cuba:
Heavy rainfall, flash flooding and landslides are expected soon. Life-threatening storm surge and damaging winds are likely to begin later today. Complete all preparations now. - Southeastern and Central Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos:
Hurricane conditions, life-threatening storm surge, and heavy rainfall are expected across portions of the southeastern and central Bahamas on Wednesday. Complete preparations by tonight and follow local official guidance. Tropical storm conditions, heavy rains, and significant storm surge are expected in the Turks and Caicos Islands on Wednesday.
For more information go to hurricanes.gov
Advertise with the mоѕt vіѕіtеd nеwѕ ѕіtе іn Antigua!
We offer fully customizable and flexible digital marketing packages.
Contact us at [email protected]
Someone must have called Melissa a “dutty gyal” when it was passing cause that bend not easy.
The resolve of the Jamaicans will come through.
Melissa ah rude gyal, ah skin out and dey bark sum natural shattas pan Jam Dung.