Hurricane Melissa Impacts Bahamas, Jamaica; US Sends Aid

Hurricane Melissa's Path and Intensity

• 🌀 Hurricane Melissa made landfall in Cuba as a Category 3 storm and is now heading towards the Bahamas.
• 📉 The storm has weakened to a Category 1 with winds at 90 mph, moving northeast at 16 mph.
• 📈 Upon entering open ocean, Melissa is expected to strengthen back to a Category 2 as it approaches Bermuda.
• ⚠️ Bermuda is not forecast for landfall but will be on the eastern side of the storm, potentially experiencing hurricane conditions.

Impact and Damage in Jamaica

• ⚡ 77% of Jamaica is without power following the hurricane's passage.
• 🏚️ Flash floods caused by heavy rain in the mountains have led to significant mud accumulation and destruction in cities like Santa Cruz.
• 🌊 Fishing villages and hotels have sustained massive destruction, with reports of damaged roofs and buildings.
• 🏫 St. Elizabeth Technical High School experienced severe damage, with its roof ripped off and walls collapsing onto classrooms.
• 🤝 Jamaican authorities are working on long-term housing plans, with 25,000 people currently in shelters.
• 🙏 Despite the damage, officials note that amazingly no lives were lost in the city of Santa Cruz, as far as they are aware.

US Response and Aid Efforts

• 🚁 The US is sending rescue and response teams to the Caribbean.
• 🤝 A fundraising drive has been launched in Nassau County, New York, to collect emergency supplies and funds for impacted families in Jamaica.
• 📦 Donations are being collected at Nolan's Caribbean Cuisine Restaurant in Elmont, NY.

Storm's Effect on Local Areas

• ⚠️ A First Alert weather day is in effect for the local area tomorrow due to the storm's approach.
• 🌧️ Expected impacts include 1-2 inches of rain, heavy winds with gusts of 30-40 mph, and minor coastal flooding.

Situation in Cuba

• 🏠 In Cuba, where Melissa made landfall as a Category 3 storm, 700,000 people are in shelters.