Record-breaking storm alert for Jamaica: Hurricane Melissa may become Jamaica’s deadliest storm ever, officials say

Hurricane Melissa has rapidly intensified into a Category 1 hurricane as it approaches Jamaica, marking a significant escalation in the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season. With sustained winds of 75 mph (120 km/h) and a slow-moving trajectory of just 1 mph (2 km/h), Melissa poses a serious threat to the island nation. Jamaican officials have issued urgent warnings, urging residents to prepare for potential catastrophic flooding, landslides, and extended power outages. The National Hurricane Center forecasts that Melissa could strengthen into a major hurricane by early next week, making it one of the most powerful storms to impact Jamaica in recent history.

Hurricane Melissa overview and forecast

As of October 25, 2025, at 2:00 PM EDT, Hurricane Melissa was located approximately 145 miles southeast of Kingston, Jamaica. The storm is moving very slowly to the west-northwest at 1 mph (2 km/h), which increases the duration of its impact on the region. The National Hurricane Center has issued a hurricane warning for Jamaica, with expectations of rapid intensification over the weekend. Forecasts indicate that Melissa could reach Category 4 strength by Monday, bringing sustained winds of 130–156 mph (209–251 km/h) and life-threatening storm surges. Rainfall accumulations of 15 to 25 inches (38 to 64 cm) are anticipated, with localised amounts up to 35 inches (89 cm), leading to catastrophic flash flooding and landslides, as per The Weather Channel reports

Government response and preparedness measures for Hurricane Melissa

In response to the impending threat, Jamaican authorities have activated over 650 emergency shelters across the island. Minister of Science, Energy, Telecommunications and Transport, Daryl Vaz, emphasised the importance of heeding official warnings and avoiding unnecessary travel during the storm. He advised residents to stay indoors and refrain from venturing out during the height of the storm.

The government has also implemented measures to ensure the stability of essential services. Approximately 550 Jamaica Public Service (JPS) workers, including local contractors and 71 overseas line workers, have been positioned to respond to potential power outages. As of the latest reports, the electricity supply remains stable, with fewer outages than typically experienced during storm preparations.

Additionally, the National Water Commission has mobilised teams and equipment to address potential water supply disruptions. The University of the West Indies has ordered the evacuation of students from its Mona campus, and the National Water Commission has provided access to clean drinking water for over 548,000 customers in preparation for the storm.

Regional impact and international response

Hurricane Melissa's effects are not confined to Jamaica. In Haiti, the storm has already caused significant damage, with at least three fatalities reported due to landslides and falling trees. The Haitian Civil Protection Agency has been actively involved in rescue and relief operations, as reported by the AP News.

The Dominican Republic has also been affected, with over 500,000 people losing access to water services due to downed trees and infrastructure damage. The government has initiated evacuations and is working to restore essential services.

In response to the regional crisis, the United Nations has allocated $4 million in humanitarian aid to support evacuation and emergency response efforts in Haiti.

Hurricane Melissa represents a significant and growing threat to Jamaica and the surrounding Caribbean region. With its slow movement and potential for rapid intensification, the storm poses risks of widespread flooding, landslides, and prolonged power and communication outages. Residents are urged to stay informed through official channels, adhere to evacuation orders if issued, and take all necessary precautions to safeguard lives and property. Continued monitoring and preparedness are essential as the storm progresses through the Caribbean.