By Belize Live News Staff: Hurricane Melissa continues to unleash torrential rain, dangerous winds, and storm surge across Jamaica, after rapidly intensifying into a Category 4 hurricane over the Caribbean Sea.
The storm, located about 100 miles south-southeast of Kingston, is moving slowly westward with maximum sustained winds near 140 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center.
Authorities in Jamaica have issued hurricane warnings as flooding, power outages, and landslides are being reported in several parishes. Prime Minister Andrew Holness has urged citizens to take the storm seriously and prepare for worsening conditions.
Meanwhile, the Belize National Meteorological Service confirms that Melissa poses no immediate threat to Belize, though officials continue to monitor its path closely as it remains over open waters.
Meteorologists say Melissa’s rapid intensification reflects the trend of stronger and faster-developing storms fueled by record-warm Caribbean waters.
