This blog post summarizes the latest developments and preparedness guidance as Hurricane Melissa, a rapidly intensifying Category 4 storm, moves slowly toward Jamaica.
It explains the expected hazards, the actions authorities are taking, and practical steps residents should consider to reduce risk during the storm’s approach on Sunday, October 26, 2025.
Hurricane Melissa: current situation
Hurricane Melissa has intensified into a powerful Category 4 hurricane and is advancing slowly toward Jamaica, increasing the chance of prolonged, severe impacts across the island.
Authorities have activated emergency plans, opened shelters nationwide, and urged residents to take shelter and secure their homes immediately.
Emergency services are on high alert and transportation disruptions are already under way: flights have been canceled and ports have suspended operations as a precaution.
Live reports from Kingston are highlighting the seriousness of this event as communities brace for heavy rain, destructive winds, and dangerous storm surge.
Forecast and expected hazards
Slow-moving hurricanes pose a greater threat because they can dump much more rain, drive prolonged storm surge, and subject infrastructure to longer periods of high winds.
For Jamaica, the primary hazards from Melissa include:
What residents should do now
As an emergency scientist with decades of experience, I emphasize that early action saves lives.
If you are in Jamaica or responsible for someone there, the time to prepare is now.
Follow official guidance from local emergency management and heed evacuation orders where they are issued.
Prepare for the storm by securing your home and assembling basic supplies.
Ensure everyone in your household understands your plan and has access to a safe shelter location.
Practical preparedness checklist
Below are critical steps households should take ahead of Melissa’s arrival:
Community response and operations
National emergency services have mobilized pre-positioned teams and opened shelters across the island to accommodate residents displaced by storm impacts.
Port and flight suspensions will limit movement, so expect constrained logistics and delayed relief arrivals until Melissa passes.
Local broadcasters and correspondents, reporting from places like Kingston, are providing real-time updates.
Rely on verified official channels for instructions and avoid rumors that can cause confusion during fast-changing conditions.
Final observations
Hurricane Melissa’s slow approach and Category 4 intensity make this one of the most serious threats Jamaica has faced in recent years.
Residents should act decisively now and prioritize safety over property.
Remain vigilant as forecasts and conditions evolve.
Emergency services are prepared, but public cooperation is essential to minimize harm and speed recovery after the storm passes.
Here is the source article for this story: Jamaica residents hunker down ahead of catastrophic Hurricane Melissa | Latest Weather Clips