The hurricane is threatening Jamaica, Cuba, and the Bahamas.
A National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reconnaissance flight had to abandon tracking when the hurricane hunter encountered severe turbulence and gusts stronger than 200 mph alongside Hurricane Melissa.
NOAA stated, “The aircraft left the storm early after experiencing severe turbulence in the southwestern eyewall.”
Haiti and the Dominican Republic experienced at least four fatalities attributable to the storm over the weekend, which has reached Category 5 strength.
The National Hurricane Center warned Jamaicans to remain in shelter as the slow-moving storm proceeds across the island. The NHC stated on Monday, “Catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and numerous landslides are likely today through Tuesday. Destructive winds, especially in the mountains, will begin by this evening.”
NHC forecasters said, “There’s really no practical difference in Melissa making landfall in Jamaica at category 4 or 5 intensity, since both categories can produce catastrophic wind damage.”
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Acting Under Secretary Laura Grimm as she oversees the NOAA.
- For Director Michael Brennan as he heads the National Hurricane Center.
- For Director Ken Graham as he manages the National Weather Service.
Sources: USA Today, AP News
