Hurricane Melissa: Jamaica Faces 'Storm of the Century'

Hurricane Melissa struck Jamaica as a Category 5 storm, the strongest in its history, leading to catastrophic damage and evacuations. The hurricane disrupted power, forced thousands into shelters, and threatened severe flooding. Neighboring countries, including Haiti and Cuba, are also experiencing heavy impacts from the storm.

Hurricane Melissa, a formidable Category 5 storm, made landfall in western Jamaica on Tuesday afternoon, becoming the strongest hurricane to ever directly hit the Caribbean island. With winds of 185 mph, the storm struck near New Hope, causing extensive damage and prompting widespread evacuations.

The U.S. National Hurricane Center warned of dire conditions, predicting total structural failure along Melissa's path. This storm, unprecedented in Jamaica's recorded history, has already led to significant power outages, with local utility JPS reporting numerous affected customers.

The storm's impact extends beyond Jamaica, with regional heavy rainfall affecting Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Cuban authorities have evacuated over 500,000 people from vulnerable areas, bracing for Melissa's powerful advance. As governments step up emergency responses, residents brace for the storm's ongoing devastation.

(With inputs from agencies.)