Overview

Hurricane Melissa⁢ has rapidly intensified to a Category⁣ 5 storm on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, the highest classification. As of today,October 27,2025,the storm is tracking through the northern Caribbean Sea,posing a meaningful threat to Jamaica and Cuba. ‌Haiti and ​the Dominican Republic​ have already experienced the ‍impacts of the hurricane, with reports of heavy‍ rainfall and flooding (National Hurricane Center).

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) reports sustained winds of 260​ kilometers per hour (approximately 160 mph) associated with Melissa. Thes winds, coupled with torrential rainfall and‍ risky storm surge, are expected to cause catastrophic flooding (NHC).

Impact on Jamaica

Jamaican ‌authorities have‌ activated emergency protocols, including opening 881 shelters across the island to accommodate residents needing safe haven⁣ (Jamaica⁢ Observer). Public transportation has been mobilized to assist‍ with evacuations. However, ‍reports indicate that‍ some ⁢residents in vulnerable coastal areas, such as Port Royal near kingston, have chosen to remain ⁣in thier homes despite​ evacuation orders and flood warnings (Jamaica Observer).

Kingston’s norman‌ Manley International Airport ⁣has been⁢ closed⁣ in anticipation of the storm’s arrival, disrupting travel‍ plans. The government has urged all citizens to heed evacuation orders and take necessary precautions to protect ‍life and property.

Cuba Braces for Impact

Hurricane Melissa is forecast to reach Cuba late Tuesday night, bringing with it the threat⁢ of ⁤significant damage. Cuban authorities are actively preparing⁣ for the storm, focusing on evacuation ⁢efforts in​ low-lying coastal areas⁢ (Reuters). ​ Specific evacuation zones​ and⁢ procedures are being coordinated by local government ‌officials.

The Cuban government is also ‌securing critical infrastructure and mobilizing resources to respond to potential emergencies. Citizens​ are being advised to stock up on essential supplies, including food, water, and medications.

Previous ⁣Impacts: haiti and Dominican Republic

Haiti and ⁣the dominican Republic experienced the outer bands​ of Hurricane Melissa on Sunday, October 27, 2025. heavy rainfall led to ⁣localized flooding and​ disruptions⁣ to daily life. While direct impacts were less severe than those anticipated for Jamaica ⁣and ⁤Cuba, the storm exacerbated existing vulnerabilities in these ‌nations (Al Jazeera).

Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind ⁣Scale

The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale is a 1-5 rating based on a hurricane’s sustained wind speed.​ This scale provides an estimate of the potential property damage and flooding expected.⁢ Here’s a breakdown: