Jamaica,Cuba Evacuate Thousands as Hurricane Melissa Approaches

Hurricane Melissa, a Category 4 storm with maximum wind speeds of 230 km/h, is intensifying as it approaches Jamaica and eastern Cuba, prompting mandatory evacuations in vulnerable areas. The Jamaican government has ordered evacuations in seven flood-prone communities, including parts of Kingston and St Andrew, under a Disaster Risk Management Evacuation Order effective immediately and remaining in force while the threat persists. Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel also announced the evacuation of thousands in eastern Cuba, emphasizing the priority of protecting the population and providing public information. The hurricane is forecast to pass very close to or over Jamaica before moving toward the east coast of Cuba, bringing life-threatening storm surge, wind, and rain. Additionally, US citizens have been evacuated from Guantánamo Bay as the hurricane advances toward the region. Authorities in both countries continue to monitor the storm closely and urge residents to follow official guidance.