A powerful storm named Hurricane Melissa has struck Jamaica and is now moving toward Cuba with strong winds and heavy rain. This storm is one of the most dangerous in recent years, causing floods, damage to homes, and power cuts.
In this article, we will explain the latest updates, how it started, its impact, and what comes next
What Is Hurricane Melissa ?
A hurricane is a strong tropical storm that forms over the ocean.
When the wind speed crosses 120 km/h, it becomes a hurricane.
Hurricane Melissa formed in the Atlantic Ocean and quickly grew into a Category 5 storm — which means it is very powerful and dangerous.
Hurricane Category Wind Speed (km/h) Impact Level
Category 1 120–150 Moderate damage
Category 2 151–180 Strong winds
Category 3 181–210 Major damage
Category 4 211–250 Severe damage
Category 5 Above 250 Catastrophic
Melissa reached Category 5, the highest level. That’s why countries like Jamaica, Cuba, and the Bahamas were on high alert.
🌀 How Hurricane Melissa Formed
Let’s understand it in a simple example 👇
Example:
Imagine hot air from the ocean rises up and cold air rushes in to fill the space.
This movement creates a spinning motion.
When this spin grows large over warm water, it becomes a cyclone or hurricane.
That’s how Hurricane Melissa formed in the Atlantic, feeding on warm sea temperatures.
🇯🇲 Impact of Hurricane Melissa on Jamaica
When Hurricane Melissa hit Jamaica, it brought extreme winds, heavy rain, and flooding.
Major effects reported:
Thousands of homes were damaged or destroyed.
Power lines fell, leading to widespread electricity loss.
Roads and bridges were flooded.
Trees were uprooted, blocking transport.
Many people were moved to emergency shelters.
The Jamaican government declared a state of emergency and requested international help.
Quick Facts Table
Area Impact
Capital City (Kingston) Strong winds, power outages
Coastal Areas Flooding and storm surges
Airports Several flights cancelled
Casualties Dozens injured, few missing
🇨🇺 Hurricane Melissa Heads Toward Cuba
After hitting Jamaica, Hurricane Melissa is now moving northwest toward Cuba.
The Cuban authorities have already started evacuations in coastal regions.
Cuba’s preparation includes:
Moving thousands of residents to safe zones.
Closing schools and offices in risk areas.
Setting up emergency food and medical centers.
Navy and army on standby for rescue operations.
Meteorologists say Melissa could make landfall in Cuba within 24–36 hours if it continues its current path.
☁️ Weather Conditions and Warnings
Rainfall: 200–300 mm expected in some regions.
Storm Surge: Up to 4–6 meters high near coastlines.
Tornado Risk: Small tornadoes could form near the storm center.
Warning:
People in Cuba, the Bahamas, and Florida are advised to stay alert and follow safety instructions.
🏠 How People Are Staying Safe
People in the Caribbean are taking several steps to protect themselves and their families.
Safety steps:
Staying inside strong buildings.
Avoiding beaches and rivers.
Storing food, water, and medicines.
Charging mobile phones and keeping flashlights ready.
Listening to radio or official updates.
Simple Tip:
Never try to go outside during a hurricane — the wind can pick up heavy objects and turn them into dangerous projectiles.
🌍 Global Reaction and Support
The world is watching the storm closely.
Several countries and organizations have promised help.
International Response:
United States: Sent weather tracking planes and aid teams.
UN & Red Cross: Preparing emergency kits for affected families.
India: Offered medical support and disaster supplies.
European Union: Announced relief fund for rebuilding Jamaica.
Such support shows how countries unite in times of natural disasters.
💰 Economic Impact
Hurricane Melissa is not only a natural disaster — it also affects the economy.
Expected losses:
Agriculture destroyed by floods.
Tourism affected — hotels closed, flights cancelled.
Ports and trade routes disrupted.
Cost of rebuilding homes and power systems in billions of dollars.
Example:
In 2020, Hurricane Laura caused nearly $20 billion in damages in the US.
Experts fear Melissa could cause similar or even higher losses in the Caribbean.
🌱 Climate Change Connection
Scientists say storms like Melissa are becoming stronger due to climate change.
When oceans get warmer, hurricanes gain more energy.
That’s why we now see more Category 4 and 5 storms than before.
Simple Explanation:
Hotter oceans = More powerful hurricanes.
To reduce future disasters, the world needs to cut carbon emissions and protect the environment.
🔮 What’s Next for Hurricane Melissa ?
The storm will likely hit eastern Cuba next.
After Cuba, it may weaken slightly as it moves toward Florida or the Gulf of Mexico.
Weather experts continue to monitor its movement using satellites and radar.
If it loses strength, it could become a tropical storm in a few days.
But until then, it remains very dangerous.
📋 Summary Table
Topic Key Points
Storm Name Hurricane Melissa
Category 5 (Most Powerful)
Countries Affected Jamaica, Cuba (next), Bahamas
Wind Speed 250 km/h
Deaths/Injuries Dozens injured, few missing
Economic Damage Billions expected
Cause Warm ocean + climate change
Global Support UN, USA, India, EU sending aid
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is Hurricane Melissa?
A: It’s a powerful Category 5 hurricane that hit Jamaica and is now heading toward Cuba.
Q2: How dangerous is it?
A: Very dangerous — with wind speeds above 250 km/h, causing flooding and destruction.
Q3: Which areas are most affected?
A: Jamaica has been hit hardest; Cuba and the Bahamas are next in its path.
Q4: Why are hurricanes getting stronger now?
A: Because of climate change — warmer oceans give hurricanes more energy.
Q5: What should people do during a hurricane?
A: Stay indoors, avoid flooded areas, store food and water, and follow government alerts.
🌈 Conclusion
Hurricane Melissa is a powerful reminder of how nature can change lives in just a few hours.
As Jamaica struggles with the damage and Cuba prepares for impact, the world must come together to provide help and support.
The storm also teaches us the importance of climate awareness and disaster preparedness.
With global cooperation and care for the planet, we can reduce the impact of such deadly storms in the future.
