Hurricane Melissa has rapidly intensified into a powerful Category 4 storm as it moves toward Jamaica, raising fears of severe flooding, destructive winds, and dangerous storm surges.
The hurricane is packing sustained winds of around 145 mph and could strengthen further before making landfall late Monday or early Tuesday.
Authorities in Jamaica have declared a state of emergency in coastal regions, ordering evacuations and opening hundreds of shelters across the island.
Airports and seaports have been closed, and residents are being urged to prepare for possible power outages and heavy rainfall of up to 30 inches in some areas.
Meteorologists warn that Melissa’s slow movement increases the risk of catastrophic flooding and landslides. The storm surge could reach up to 12 feet in low-lying coastal zones, putting thousands of homes and businesses at risk.
After hitting Jamaica, Melissa is expected to move toward eastern Cuba and the Bahamas later this week, potentially maintaining its strength as a major hurricane. Emergency crews across the Caribbean are now on high alert.
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