Jamaica Braces for Hurricane Melissa: A Storm of Historic Proportions

Jamaica is preparing for a powerful storm, Hurricane Melissa, which could be one of the strongest to hit the island in a long time. Forecasters say it might reach the top end of a Category 4 hurricane when it arrives on Tuesday. Hurricanes are a big deal in Jamaica. The last time a Category 4 storm hit the island was 37 years ago. That storm, called Hurricane Gilbert, was so strong it displaced about 500, 000 people and caused a lot of damage. The power and water systems were knocked out, and the winds were still really strong even after the storm passed. Since the year 2000, three other Category 4 hurricanes have come close to Jamaica. Hurricane Beryl in 2024 caused over $200 million in damage. Hurricane Dean in 2007 left behind around $300 million in destruction. Hurricane Ivan in 2004 resulted in 17 deaths and nearly $600 million in damage. Even storms that aren't as strong as Category 4 can cause a lot of trouble. In 1951, Hurricane Charlie hit Jamaica and was called the "worst hurricane disaster of the century" at the time. It brought winds over 110 mph and 17 inches of rain, causing over $50 million in damage (which would be over $620 million today). The storm killed 152 people and left 25, 000 residents homeless. In 1912, a Category 3 hurricane hit the island with winds of 115 mph. The heavy rain and flash flooding caused a lot of damage, especially in the northwest part of the island. Several towns were destroyed by winds and tidal waves, and at least 100 lives were lost. Hurricane Melissa is expected to be very strong, and Jamaica is getting ready for it. The island has seen powerful storms before, and each one teaches them more about how to prepare and stay safe.