Category 5 Hurricane Melissa Nears Landfall in Jamaica — Island Braces for ‘Storm of the Century’

Jamaica is facing one of the most powerful storms in its history as Category 5 Hurricane Melissa barrels toward the island with sustained winds reaching 185 mph (298 km/h). The storm, described by the United Nations as the “storm of the century,” is expected to cause catastrophic damage as it makes landfall today.

Authorities have confirmed at least seven deaths linked to the hurricane so far — three in Jamaica, three in Haiti, and one in the Dominican Republic — as the storm’s outer bands already unleash torrential rain and powerful winds across the region.

Meteorologists warn that central and western parishes of Jamaica are at highest risk, with forecasts predicting up to 75 centimeters of rainfall over the next two days. Flooding, landslides, and storm surges are expected to cause widespread destruction.

Kingston Mayor Andrew Swaby said emergency teams have pre-positioned heavy equipment to support rapid recovery efforts once conditions improve. “Our infrastructure will take a hit, but we’re ready to recover as soon as possible,” he said, noting close coordination between government agencies and regional partners.

Residents across the island have been urged to seek shelter, with thousands already evacuated from low-lying and coastal areas. Some, however, have chosen to stay home, reinforcing their houses and stockpiling supplies. “People are in high spirits,” said Kingston resident Mateo Avalle Piber, adding that communities have been supporting each other and staying informed through official live updates.

Images from Kingston show violent waves crashing along the coast and palm trees bending under fierce winds as the hurricane’s eyewall — the zone of its strongest winds — begins to move inland.

As the country braces for impact, authorities continue to warn of life-threatening flooding, infrastructure damage, and prolonged power outages. Recovery efforts are expected to begin as soon as conditions allow, with government officials pledging to mobilize immediate relief for affected communities.