Hurricane Melissa is the latest major event affecting Jamaica, bringing the island under extreme weather conditions with potential for catastrophic wind, storm surge, and rainfall totals. Below is a concise situational overview and what to watch for. Situation snapshot

• Current status: Jamaica has been impacted by a powerful hurricane, with reports of direct landfall as a high-intensity storm and continuing dangerous conditions as it tracks across the region. Expect a period of intense winds, heavy rainfall, and flash flooding in affected areas.

• Severity and impacts: As a Category 5 hurricane or near-Category 5 at landfall, Melissa brings the risk of widespread structural damage, elevated storm surge along the coast, and life-threatening flooding. Fatalities and injuries have been reported in some areas of the greater Caribbean, with Jamaica experiencing significant disruption.

• Forecast trajectory: After Jamaica, the system is anticipated to move toward eastern Cuba and then approach the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos, with rainfall totals potentially remaining extremely high in Jamaica over the next 24–72 hours.

• Preparatory actions: Authorities have issued evacuations for especially vulnerable populations, closed schools and government offices in affected zones, and called for emergency relief readiness and international assistance for post-storm recovery. Residents are advised to stay indoors, avoid windows, and seek sturdy shelter as the eye passes.

What to do if you’re in Jamaica

• Safety first: Seek shelter in a robust, interior room away from windows; protect yourself with a mattress or solid furniture and wear a helmet if available. Do not venture outside during the eyewall passage.

• Stay informed: Monitor official updates from local authorities and international weather agencies for changes in storm intensity or track. Expect possible power outages and communication disruptions; prepare a 72-hour emergency kit, including water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, medications, and important documents.

• If you need to evacuate: Follow designated evacuation routes and shelter guidance from authorities; bring essential items and assist neighbors with accessibility needs where possible.

Post-storm outlook

• Immediate aftermath: Expect damage assessment tasks, debris clearance, and potentially restricted access to roads and critical infrastructure. International aid and local relief efforts are typically mobilized in the days following the worst impacts.

• Long-term recovery: Rebuilding can take weeks to months, depending on the extent of wind and flood damage, housing stability, and the availability of materials and services for reconstruction. Coordination with disaster response agencies will guide shelter, healthcare, and utility restoration.

If you’d like, I can pull the latest official advisories and summarize what specifically applies to your location (parish or city) and provide a checklists tailored to families, businesses, or travelers.