Huge Storm Growing More Powerful
Hurricane Melissa became a very dangerous Category 4 storm on Sunday as it headed toward Jamaica and Cuba. The hurricane is wielding 140-mile-per-hour winds and meteorologists advise that it’s only growing stronger. Jamaica can expect the storm to arrive sometime Monday night or Tuesday morning. Then it’s predicted to move towards southeastern Cuba late Tuesday.
The U.S. National Hurricane Centre issued an alert that the storm would leave disaster-level flooding, mudslides, and massive waves battering the coastline. Jamaica has never experienced the amount of rain that is on its way. It could pour as much as 15 to 30 inches in some areas, with some areas possibly receiving 40 inches. That is over three feet of water in other areas.
Government Begs People to Leave Danger Zones
The government in Jamaica established nearly 900 shelters nationwide and is assisting individuals in reaching safety. Sunday evening, Prime Minister Andrew Holness instructed everyone in Port Royal in Kingston and six other locations to evacuate immediately. It’s no longer a recommendation, it’s mandatory.
Desmond McKenzie, the minister responsible for local government, informed citizens directly at a news conference that most communities will not make it through the flooding that is heading their way. He made a point to mention that Kingston is located very low and there is no place in the city that is flood-free. Both of Jamaica’s international airports were closed to ensure people’s safety.
Some Residents Refusing to Evacuate Despite Warnings
Despite all the warnings, Jamaicans chose to remain in their houses. Government employees reported that some individuals wouldn’t even board the evacuation buses when they made the rounds. Douglas Butler, a captain of boats in Port Royal, indicated to journalists that he’s holding firm regardless. He explained that as long as he has something to eat, he’ll simply sit tight and weather out the storm.
Weather officials are adamant that this is unprecedented. Jamaica’s information minister, Dana Morris Dixon, stated the rainfall figures they’re getting are totally new ground. She said the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency is ready to assist, and nations from across the globe have already pledged assistance once the storm has passed.
News At Glance
- Hurricane Melissa reached Category 4 with 140 mph winds bound for Jamaica
- Forecast to bring as much as 40 inches of rain in some regions leading to catastrophic flooding
- Jamaica opened 900 shelters and issued mandatory evacuations for seven regions including Port Royal
- The two international airports serving Jamaica closed before the storm
- Cuba is also expected to take a hit late Tuesday with 10 to 15 inches of rain
FAQ
Q: When will Hurricane Melissa strike Jamaica exactly?
A: The storm is likely to hit Jamaica between Monday night and Tuesday morning. After Jamaica, it will proceed to strike southeastern Cuba late Tuesday.
Q: How severe is a Category 4 hurricane?
A: Category 4 is the second-most severe classification for hurricanes. It signifies greatly threatening winds of 130-156 mph capable of removing roofs, snapping trees, downing power lines, and rendering neighbourhoods uninhabitable for weeks or months.
Q: Why are officials so concerned about Kingston flooding?
A: Kingston is located at a very low level, so water has no place to go. Officials said there is no safe area in Kingston from floods, and some communities won’t be able to withstand the amount of water that’s coming.
Q: What do people need to do if they’re still in Jamaica today?
A: Make it to one of the 900 emergency shelters as soon as possible. The Prime Minister has mandated evacuations in seven regions. Do not attempt to weather the storm at home – officials warn that the flooding will be disastrous.
Q: Will Cuba be hit as hard as Jamaica?
A: Cuba will be hit hard for sure but a bit less than Jamaica. Eastern Cuba is expecting 10 to 15 inches of rainfall with some areas maybe getting 20 inches. Jamaica might receive as much as 40 inches in some areas.
___________
For more world news and leadership insights, explore Inspirepreneur Magazine and subscribe to our newsletter.
