BREAKING: Category 5 Hurricane Melissa Makes Devastating Landfall in Jamaica

urricane Melissa has made landfall near New Hope in southwestern Jamaica as a Category 5 storm- one of the strongest hurricanes to ever strike the Atlantic Basin. Maximum sustained winds are estimated at 185 mph (295 km/h), with a central pressure of 892 mb, signaling catastrophic conditions across the island.

This is an extremely dangerous and life-threatening situation. Violent winds, catastrophic storm surge, flash flooding, landslides, and total structural failures are occurring or imminent. Residents should not leave shelter, even during the eye’s calm -extreme winds will return quickly.

Melissa is expected to weaken over land but remain a major hurricane as it approaches eastern Cuba and the Bahamas.

What You Should Do:

• Ensure you have our 1DegreeOutside app downloaded, with LOCATION and NOTIFICATIONS turned ON so you’ll receive warnings.
• Remain in a secure, interior room away from windows. Use a mattress or helmet for extra protection.
• Do not attempt to travel or go outside until authorities say it is safe.
• Be prepared for long-term power, water, and communication outages.