Hurricane Melissa Makes History: Cat 5 Unleashes Ruin on Jamaica, Science Shouts “Told You So”

Hurricane Melissa Makes History: Cat 5 Unleashes Ruin on Jamaica, Science Shouts “Told You So”

Let’s get right to the point: Jamaica just took a direct meteorological uppercut, courtesy of Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 buzz saw with 185 mph sustained winds. This isn’t just another “busy storm season”—Melissa is now the first Category 5 ever to smash straight into Jamaican soil, and the only entity less surprised than the scientists is, well, the climate itself.

Power is out for over 240,000 Jamaicans, airports are shut, and officials literally said “put as many walls as possible between you and the storm.” There’s frankly no comedy here—just the brutal arrival of a future we’ve been actively warned about.

Kingston, while lucky enough not to get the literal eye, still saw storm-force winds, torrents of rain, and surging water that turned streets into debris-packed rivers. Residents were told in no uncertain terms to “hunker down” and “stay away from windows.”

How about tourists? Adam and Jordan Simmons, stranded American honeymooners, told NBC News staff converted two restaurants into ad hoc bunkers: “The manager assured us that we wouldn’t be in any danger and that we’re as safe as possible.” But with the power cut to prevent fires, the only thing left running were backup generators—and nerves. Their first request: “Please keep Jamaicans in your hearts; it’s going to get much worse after.” (NBC Video)

Desmond McKenzie, Jamaica’s local government minister, went full real-talk: “This is not the time to be brave. Don’t bet against Melissa. It is not a bet that we can win.” 6,000+ crowded into proper shelters as windows shattered and roofs peeled away. The National Hurricane Center cut to the chase: “This is the last chance to protect your life.”

Officials advised: get into the most interior, windowless room, stack walls between you and outside, put a mattress over your head, and “wear a helmet.” (Not a metaphor. An actual helmet. Let’s hope you didn’t donate that old bike gear.)

The science doesn’t lie, even if some politicians do. Melissa intensified from Cat 4 to Cat 5—an increase of 70mph in one day—thanks to “ocean water 2.5°F above average.” (Go ahead, pretend that’s a coincidence.) Climate Central estimates this situation was made “up to 700 times more likely” by human-caused climate change.

Fun physics: For every 1°F hotter air gets, it can hold 3–4% more moisture. Hence 30 inches of rain—because the sky now works overtime as a fire hose. Warm oceans powered this storm’s jump to monstrous, and current models say storms like this are now essentially “the floor,” not the ceiling.

World Central Kitchen was pre-staged for the aftermath, supported by UN relief. “We’re coordinating with local restaurant partners to ensure they can serve meals once the hurricane passes,” WCK said on the ground. Six-figure meal counts are expected again. (World Central Kitchen)

UN agencies pre-positioned tents, hygiene kits, and food. “Priority needs include…emergency shelter, household items, safe water…” as many communities are still isolated. (UN Situation Update)

Melissa’s not just random bad luck—it’s a loudspeaker warning for everywhere else. Current “preparedness” is built on outdated risks, so unless you’re working to change policy (and not just hoarding candles), buckle up.

No one can “fight” a Cat 5, but we sure as hell can stop acting like these records mean nothing. Demand leadership, common sense, and real funding—or Jamaica’s disaster will become everyone’s preview.