Hurricane Melissa Strikes Jamaica – Full Report (2025)
Storm Overview
- Hurricane Melissa intensified rapidly and reached Category 5 strength, the highest on the NHC scale.
- It made landfall in Jamaica with winds near 185 mph (295 km/h) and pressure around 892 mb.
- The landfall occurred on Jamaica’s southern coast near New Hope in Westmoreland Parish before tracking toward Cuba and the Bahamas.
- The storm’s slow movement worsened damage due to long exposure to strong winds and flooding.
Impacts on Jamaica
- Infrastructure damage: Homes, hospitals, and schools were destroyed. A hospital in St. Elizabeth Parish had to evacuate patients.
- Power outage: More than 500,000 customers lost electricity across the island.
- Heavy rainfall: Up to 40 inches of rain triggered flash floods and landslides in mountainous areas.
- Storm surge: Coastal flooding reached 9–13 feet in southern parishes.
- Disaster declaration: Jamaica’s Prime Minister declared a national disaster due to widespread destruction.
Why This Storm Was Unprecedented
- Melissa is the first Category 5 hurricane in Jamaica’s recorded history.
- It surpassed Hurricane Gilbert (1988) in both intensity and destruction.
- Experts classify this as one of the strongest Atlantic hurricanes ever to make landfall.
Safety and Preparedness Measures
- Evacuations were ordered for flood-prone areas; shelters were set up nationwide.
- Citizens were urged to remain indoors during the storm to avoid life-threatening debris and floods.
- Hospitals moved critical patients to safer zones and used backup generators.
- Post-storm efforts include restoring power, clearing debris, and providing relief supplies.
Regional and Future Outlook
- After passing Jamaica, Melissa moved toward eastern Cuba and the Bahamas with reduced but still dangerous strength.
- Jamaica remains at risk of flash flooding and landslides due to saturated soil.
- Recovery will focus on rebuilding homes, restoring services, and supporting displaced families.
Key Figures at a Glance
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Maximum Wind Speed | 185 mph (295 km/h) |
| Central Pressure | 892 millibars |
| Rainfall (local max) | 30–40 inches |
| Storm Surge Height | Up to 13 feet |
| Power Outages | 500,000+ customers |
| Category | Category 5 (Saffir–Simpson Scale) |
| Landfall Location | Southern Jamaica, near New Hope |
| Landfall Date | October 28, 2025 |
Hurricane Melissa Jamaica 2025 – Category 5 Storm Full Report & Impact Update
Reviewed by NK
on
October 29, 2025
Rating:
Reviewed by NK
on
October 29, 2025
Rating:
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