The hurricane "Melissa" is developing wind speeds of up to 175 miles per hour (282 km/h) and is expected to pass over Jamaica on Tuesday night before heading towards eastern Cuba and the Bahamas.
Meteorologists warn that the slow movement of the hurricane could lead to prolonged heavy rains, increasing the likelihood of devastating floods and landslides.
According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC) in the United States, "Melissa" is the most powerful storm in the world in 2025. If the hurricane maintains its strength, it will become the strongest hurricane to ever reach Jamaica since meteorological observations began in 1851.
On Monday evening, the Jamaican Ministry of Health reported three "storm-related deaths."
NHC forecasts indicate that some areas could receive up to 100 cm of rainfall over four days. Deputy Director Jamie Rhome warned that "due to the slow movement of the hurricane, we are facing a catastrophic event."
Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness ordered the evacuation of residents from the most vulnerable areas and urged the population to "prepare, stay home, and follow the instructions of local authorities." Authorities have activated 881 shelters across the country.
The hurricane has also caused destruction in neighboring Haiti and the Dominican Republic: at least three people have died in Haiti, and numerous homes have been flooded; in the Dominican Republic, a 79-year-old man was swept away by the current in Santo Domingo, and a 13-year-old boy is missing after being carried off by the flow.
Some residents were rescued from vehicles caught in the raging waters.
