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Jamaica Faces Catastrophic Impact as Hurricane Melissa Nears
28 Oct
Summary
- Hurricane Melissa to hit Jamaica as a Category 5 storm
- Authorities order mandatory evacuations ahead of landfall
- Over 1.5 million people expected to be directly affected
On October 29, 2025, Jamaica will face the brunt of Hurricane Melissa, a powerful Category 5 storm that is expected to be the worst to hit the Caribbean island this century. According to a UN official, the storm will bring a "catastrophic situation" to the country, with the potential for flash flooding, landslides, and total structural failure near the center of the storm.
Authorities have ordered mandatory evacuations in parts of southern Jamaica, including the historic town of Port Royal, as the storm is predicted to bring wind gusts exceeding 300 km/h (186 mph) and storm surges up to 4 meters (13 feet). The International Federation of the Red Cross has stated that over 1.5 million people in Jamaica are expected to be directly affected, with roofs tested, flood waters rising, and many facing isolation.
Despite the government's preparations, including a $33 million emergency response budget and insurance provisions, Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness has acknowledged that "no infrastructure in the region can withstand a Category 5" storm. The country is bracing for a devastating impact as Hurricane Melissa makes landfall.
