The Category 5 hurricane Melissa, the most powerful storm in the Atlantic Ocean this year, has prompted authorities in Jamaica and Cuba to issue evacuation orders for tens of thousands of residents. The storm is expected to bring catastrophic winds and heavy rainfall, raising concerns about potential damage and loss of life. Emergency services are preparing for the worst, with shelters and rescue operations being mobilized in anticipation of the storm’s impact.
Residents in coastal areas of both nations have been advised to leave their homes and seek shelter in designated safe zones. The Jamaican government has activated its disaster response plan, deploying rescue teams and providing emergency supplies to vulnerable communities. In Cuba, authorities have also launched preparations, with military units and civil defense agencies working to ensure the safety of citizens. The storm’s path is still being monitored, but it is anticipated to make landfall in the next 48 hours, potentially affecting millions of people.
With forecasts indicating sustained winds of over 150 mph and torrential rains, officials have warned that the storm could cause widespread flooding, structural damage, and power outages. The National Hurricane Center has issued repeated alerts for both countries, urging immediate action to protect lives. As the storm approaches, the focus remains on minimizing casualties and ensuring that emergency resources are available to those in need. The situation remains critical, with no significant change in the storm’s trajectory as of the latest updates.