Hurricane Melissa: Catastrophic Category 5 Storm Threatens Jamaica and Cuba

Hurricane Melissa's Imminent Landfall

• 🌀 Hurricane Melissa, a Category 4 storm with winds up to 170 mph, is less than 12 hours from making landfall in Jamaica.
• ⚠️ The storm is expected to intensify to Category 5 with winds over 175 mph, with no indication of weakening before landfall.
• 📍 Currently, it is about 140 miles off the coast and moving slowly towards the northwest.

Devastating Impacts Expected

• 🌊 Catastrophic impacts are feared, with sustained winds of 175 mph and gusts over 200 mph.
• 🌧️ Widespread rain is anticipated, with up to 40 inches expected in some areas, leading to warnings of landslides and life-threatening floods.
• 📈 The slow movement of the storm is a concern, as it will prolong the duration of its impact on the island.
• ⚠️ Authorities are also warning of a storm surge of 10 to 15 feet and the potential for tornadoes.

Preparedness and Evacuation

• 🚨 Millions are bracing for what could be the worst storm in Jamaica's history.
• 🛒 Residents are seen stocking up on supplies from grocery stores.
• ✈️ With all airports closed, many tourists are expected to be stranded and forced to ride out the storm.

Projected Path and Secondary Landfall

• 🏝️ Landfall in Jamaica is expected around 5:00 AM, before sunrise.
• 🇨🇺 The storm is then projected to make a second landfall on the east side of Cuba the following morning.
• 🇧🇸 Subsequently, it will move through the Bahamas before eventually weakening and staying off the coast of the United States.
• 🛰️ Live tracking and cameras are available on the WFAA Plus streaming app for continuous updates on Hurricane Melissa.