How did climate change impact Hurricane Melissa?

Climate change made Hurricane Melissa around 10% winder and 10% wetter than past hurricanes, as warmer ocean temperatures in the Caribbean provided more fuel for the storm's rapid intensification.

What caused Hurricane Melissa's extreme rapid intensification?

The Caribbean Sea was 1.4°C to 2°C warmer than average, allowing Melissa to strengthen by 112 km/h in just 24 hours, a phenomenon known as extreme rapid intensification.

What are the long-term implications of climate change on hurricanes like Melissa?

Experts warn that this type of powerful hurricane event is becoming more common, with Melissa's intensity being four times more likely to occur compared to pre-industrial times. The only long-term solution is to reduce fossil fuel use and curb greenhouse gas emissions.

Home / Weather / Climate Change Supercharges Hurricane Melissa, Wreaking Havoc in Caribbean

Climate Change Supercharges Hurricane Melissa, Wreaking Havoc in Caribbean

1 Nov

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Summary

Hurricane Melissa underwent extreme rapid intensification, strengthening by 112 km/h in 24 hours
Climate change made Melissa 10% winder and 10% wetter than past hurricanes
Warmer Caribbean waters, up to 2°C above average, fueled Melissa's rapid intensification

Climate Change Supercharges Hurricane Melissa, Wreaking Havoc in Caribbean

On November 1st, 2025, the Caribbean region was reeling from the devastating impacts of Hurricane Melissa, a powerful storm that had torn through the area just days earlier. Melissa had undergone a rapid and extreme intensification, strengthening by 112 km/h over a 24-hour period, making it a prime example of the growing threat posed by climate change.

According to climate scientists, the warming of the world's oceans due to human-caused climate change has been a major factor in the increasing frequency and intensity of hurricanes like Melissa. Their analyses found that hurricanes similar to Melissa are now around 10% wetter and 10% windier than they would have been in the past, thanks to the extra heat and moisture available.