Hurricane Melissa Traps Thousands, Brings Severe Flooding Jamaica

Hurricane Melissa, the strongest storm on record for Jamaica, is currently impacting the island with catastrophic flash floods, landslides, and extreme weather conditions including up to 700mm of rain and 135mph winds. Jamaican authorities have maintained a hurricane warning until the storm system moves away, with possible subsequent tropical storm warnings and flash flood alerts as residual effects continue. The UK government has set up a crisis centre and deployed the Royal Navy ship HMS Trent to assist approximately 5,000 to 8,000 British nationals on the island, urging them to register with the Foreign Office and follow local government instructions. All of Jamaica's international airports are closed as a precaution, causing critical travel disruptions and difficulties for tourists trying to leave the island. The Foreign Secretary emphasized the UK's readiness to provide 24-hour consular support and humanitarian aid if necessary, while Jamaican officials have issued strict warnings against risky activities during the storm and have listed available shelters. The situation remains severe, with ongoing monitoring and emergency measures in place to protect residents and visitors alike.