A
What happened
Hurricane Melissa, one of the most powerful hurricanes recorded in the Caribbean, is expected to make landfall in Jamaica as a category 5 storm with winds reaching 160mph. Originating from a cluster of thunderstorms off the coast of West Africa, Melissa intensified rapidly, becoming a tropical storm near Venezuela before evolving into a category 4 hurricane. Its slow movement, averaging just 5mph, raises concerns about extreme rainfall, with predictions of 200-400mm across Jamaica and up to 1,000mm in some areas. The US National Hurricane Center has warned of potential extensive damage, long-lasting power outages, and life-threatening flash floods. Meanwhile, New Zealand is recovering from severe storms that caused significant damage and power outages, highlighting the increasing frequency of extreme weather events globally.
★
Key insights
-
1
Record-breaking hurricane
Melissa could become the strongest hurricane to hit Jamaica.
-
2
Severe rainfall expected
Rainfall totals could reach up to 1,000mm in some areas.
-
3
Infrastructure at risk
Extensive damage and power outages are anticipated.
-
4
Global extreme weather trend
Increasing frequency of severe storms is a growing concern.
Takeaways
Hurricane Melissa poses a significant threat to Jamaica, with potential for catastrophic impacts due to its strength and slow movement. The situation underscores the urgent need for preparedness in the face of increasingly severe weather patterns globally.