Category 4 Hurricane Melissa Threatens Northern Caribbean, Jamaica Residents Resist Evacuation
A powerful Category 4 hurricane, Melissa, is currently threatening catastrophic conditions across the northern Caribbean, with some residents in Jamaica refusing to evacuate despite urgent warnings from officials.
As of today, October 26, 2025, Hurricane Melissa is centered approximately 120 miles south-southeast of Kingston, Jamaica, and 280 miles south-southwest of Guantánamo, Cuba, packing maximum sustained winds of 140 mph (225km/h). The U.S. National Hurricane Centre reports the storm is moving west at 5 mph and is expected to potentially intensify to a Category 5 storm tonight. Torrential rainfall of up to 760mm (30in) – and potentially as much as 1,010mm in some areas – is forecast for Jamaica and southern Hispaniola. This level of rainfall, combined with the slow movement of the storm, significantly increases the risk of devastating flooding and landslides.
Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness urged citizens to take the threat seriously, stating, “I urge Jamaicans to take this weather threat seriously. Take all measures to protect yourself.” Despite the warnings, some residents of Port Royal, a particularly vulnerable fishing village, have chosen to remain in their homes. Ann Marie Chamberlain, a 51-year-old resident, explained, “Father God will protect us,” adding that villagers believe they have adequately prepared by securing boats and reinforcing roofs. Concerns about safety and theft experienced during past evacuations to shelters are contributing to the reluctance to leave. You can find more information about hurricane preparedness from the National Hurricane Center.
The storm has already caused fatalities and damage in Haiti and the Dominican Republic, with at least three deaths in Haiti and one in the Dominican Republic, where another person is missing. Nearly 200 homes have been damaged in the Dominican Republic, and over half a million people are without water. The Cuban government has issued a hurricane watch for several provinces, and the Bahamas are bracing for potential tropical storm or hurricane conditions early next week. Understanding the science behind hurricane formation can help communities prepare; learn more about NOAA’s Hurricane Research Division.
Officials are continuing to monitor Melissa’s path and intensity, and are preparing for potential impacts across the Caribbean.
