Jamaican authorities have issued urgent evacuation orders and called on residents to move to higher ground as Hurricane Melissa bears down on the island, with landfall expected on Tuesday.Prime Minister Andrew Holness, in a national address, warned that the powerful storm could cause
“widespread destruction” across the country, urging citizens to take all necessary precautions.“Our priority is to save lives. We are asking everyone, especially those in low-lying and coastal areas, to seek safety in designated shelters immediately,” Holness said.
Emergency services have been placed on high alert, while disaster response teams are being deployed to vulnerable communities. The Meteorological Service of Jamaica reported that Hurricane Melissa is packing strong winds and torrential rain capable of triggering flash floods, storm surges, and landslides.Authorities have suspended flights, closed schools, and ordered fishermen to remain ashore as the nation braces for the storm’s impact.