Hurricane Melissa has unleashed devastating effects across the Caribbean, with satellite imagery capturing its powerful rotation on October 28, 2023. The storm, classified as a Category 5 hurricane, exhibited winds reaching up to 185 miles per hour (295 kilometers per hour), making it one of the most potent hurricanes recorded in the Atlantic Ocean, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Images from the GOES-19 satellite revealed the presence of “mesovortices,” which are small-scale rotational features forming around the eye of the storm. These formations develop under conditions of extreme wind speed and directional changes. The phenomenon highlights the intensity of Hurricane Melissa as it moved through the region, causing significant destruction.
Emergency officials reported that the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa has been tragic. In Jamaica, where the hurricane struck with full force, at least four fatalities have been confirmed, particularly in the southwestern parts of the island. Desmond McKenzie, deputy chair of Jamaica’s disaster risk management council, refrained from specifying the exact number of casualties but acknowledged the severe impact. Approximately 72% of the island is currently without power, and 65% of mobile phone sites are non-operational.
In Haiti, the situation has been similarly dire, with reports indicating that at least 25 people have died and another 18 are missing due to extensive flooding caused by the hurricane. Meanwhile, Cuba experienced Hurricane Melissa as a Category 3 storm on October 29, 2023. While no deaths have been reported there, many communities are still grappling with power outages and lack of internet and telephone service, attributed to downed transformers and power lines.
As of October 30, 2023, Hurricane Melissa has weakened to a Category 2 storm, with maximum sustained winds of 105 miles per hour (169 kilometers per hour). It is currently located approximately 515 miles (830 kilometers) southwest of Bermuda. The island remains under a hurricane warning as authorities continue to monitor the storm’s path and potential impacts.
The increasing intensity of hurricanes like Melissa has been linked to human-driven climate change, which has contributed to the overall escalation of extreme weather events. As the situation develops, recovery efforts are likely to face significant challenges in the wake of Melissa’s destructive path through the Caribbean.
