Hurricane Melissa Evacuates Thousands, Locks Down Jamaica Resorts

Hurricane Melissa, one of the strongest Atlantic hurricanes on record, has struck Jamaica with sustained winds reaching 185 mph, causing widespread disruption and danger. Thousands of tourists, including families from Richmond and groups from Houston, are stranded in resorts under lockdown orders, with many experiencing severe weather conditions and power outages. The Jamaican government has closed all airports and issued evacuation orders for high-risk areas, while the UK Foreign Office has urged British nationals to register for updates due to the threat posed by the storm. Several deaths have been reported across the Caribbean, including three in Jamaica, as catastrophic flash floods, landslides, and storm surges are anticipated. Tourists describe terrifying experiences of howling winds, structural vibrations, and the eerie quiet of evacuated areas, with some confined to hotel rooms or bathrooms for safety. Emergency responses are ongoing as residents and visitors brace for the storm's continued impact and work on plans to return home safely.