Geneva: Hurricane Melissa has rapidly intensified into a powerful Category 5 storm, threatening to unleash Jamaica’s most destructive weather event in more than a century. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has warned that the hurricane could bring catastrophic winds, torrential rain, and life-threatening storm surges across the island in the coming hours.

The WMO described Melissa as “the storm of the century for Jamaica,” with wind speeds surpassing 300 kilometers per hour and rainfall expected to exceed 70 centimeters in some regions. Authorities fear the combination of extreme winds, flash floods, and landslides could devastate communities, particularly those in coastal and mountainous areas.

More than 800 emergency shelters have been prepared across the country, but officials say that only a small number of residents have taken refuge so far. The Jamaican government has urged citizens living in vulnerable zones to evacuate immediately, warning that rescue operations may be impossible once the storm hits full force.

International relief organizations, including the Red Cross, estimate that up to 1.5 million people could be directly affected by the hurricane. Power outages, transportation disruptions, and damage to water and communication systems are expected to be widespread.

Reports from neighboring countries indicate that the storm has already caused several deaths in Haiti and the Dominican Republic. In Jamaica, at least three fatalities have been confirmed as heavy rain and strong winds began lashing the island’s eastern parishes.

Meteorologists say Melissa’s rapid intensification has been fueled by unusually warm Atlantic Ocean temperatures, which are two to three degrees higher than normal. Scientists warn that such rapid strengthening is becoming more common as global ocean temperatures rise, linking the hurricane’s ferocity to the broader effects of climate change.

After passing Jamaica, the storm is projected to move toward southeastern Cuba and the Bahamas, maintaining its strength as one of the most powerful hurricanes of the year. Regional governments are now on high alert, with emergency teams mobilizing to protect lives and critical infrastructure.

With entire communities bracing for impact, Jamaica faces a critical few days ahead. The government, international agencies, and local responders are racing against time to minimize the toll of what may become the island’s most destructive natural disaster in generations.