Hurricane Melissa’s death toll has risen to at least seven as the monstrous cyclone prepares to make landfall in Jamaica. The category five hurricane is the most powerful storm so far this year, and it has been detected off the coast ahead of its arrival on October 28 in Jamaica, where citizens have been experiencing strong winds, heavy rainfall, floods, and storm surges.
Thousands are praying that the death toll will not climb as it moves through Jamaica, where the death toll currently stands at at least three, and the number of injured is 13. Authorities in Jamaica have confirmed that the lives lost were linked to storm preparations. Two of the individuals were cutting trees when the accidents occurred, while another was reportedly electrocuted as the storm’s outer bands began to affect the island. Meanwhile, Haiti has recorded at least 3 fatalities, and the Dominican Republic’s death toll stands at 1.
As Hurricane Melissa approaches with sustained winds exceeding 157mph, communities along Jamaica’s coast are already witnessing crashing waves, flooded roadways, and rising anxiety. Officials warn that this storm could be historic in its impact, with the potential to be the strongest hurricane ever to make direct landfall in Jamaica since official tracking began.
Residents in Kingston and Montego Bay are bracing for storm surges projected to reach up to 13 feet, an event that could lead to severe coastal damage and displacement. While evacuation orders have been issued for low-lying areas, many citizens have expressed fear about leaving their homes behind, hoping instead to ride out the storm with limited supplies and uncertain conditions.
The government has mobilised emergency forces, including the Jamaica Defence Force and key disaster response units, which are now stationed across the island to respond as soon as conditions allow. Despite the threat, Prime Minister Andrew Holness has emphasised the importance of remaining calm while acknowledging the exceptional danger Melissa poses, not only because of her winds and rain but also due to the extended time she is expected to hover near the island.
Forecasters say the storm will move slowly, increasing the risk of landslides, structural damage, and flash flooding. After passing Jamaica, Melissa is projected to remain a major hurricane as it targets Cuba and later the Bahamas, where additional watches and warnings have already been issued.