Hurricane Melissa Makes Landfall In Jamaica As A Category 5

One of the most powerful hurricane landfalls on record in the Atlantic Basin.

Jamaica (WNN) - The National Hurricane Center reports that Hurricane Melissa has officially made landfall in Jamaica at 1:00 PM EST on Tuesday, October 28th, 2025, describing it as "one of the most powerful hurricane landfalls on record in the Atlantic Basin."

Hurricane Melissa ranks as the third strongest Atlantic hurricane on record based on pressure, according to the National Hurricane Center. It's also the most powerful storm ever recorded near Jamaica since Hurricane Gilbert in 1988, which struck as a Category 4.

Melissa is moving north-northeast at 9 mph, with sustained winds reaching 185 mph, matching the peak intensity of Hurricane Milton (2024), which struck Florida. The storm’s central pressure is currently 892 millibars, marking it as an exceptionally powerful and dangerous system.

A screenshot taken from the NOAA satellite shows an image of Hurricane Melissa. October 28th, 2025.

Communities across Jamaica are preparing for devastating conditions as the storm nears the coast. Montego Bay is expected to endure the brunt of the impact as the powerful right-front quadrant approaches. Experts warn of widespread devastation along the island's coast, and officials stress that dangerous winds and flooding will continue for hours even after the eye passes. The National Hurricane Center has issued a warning stating: “This is your last chance to protect your life!” Officials are urging everyone to seek shelter immediately. Cuba and the Bahamas are expected to be in Melissa's path as the hurricane continues to move.

Though hundreds of miles away, Cherryville is also feeling the effects of Hurricane Melissa. The storm's massive size has pushed bands of heavy rain and gusty winds far beyond the Caribbean, reaching parts of the southeast United States. Continued rain and strong winds are apparent as the storm's influence lingers over the next few days.