Hurricane Melissa loses strength, drops to category 4 and is still dangerous

The tendency is for Melissa to gradually lose strength, according to the NHC. However, the hurricane will still have great intensity when it hits Cuba, between today and tomorrow. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel appealed to the population to seek shelter. At least 170,000 people have already been evacuated in the province of Santiago de Cuba.

Hurricane causes damage in Jamaica

Melissa played the Jamaican solo this afternoon. At the time, the hurricane was still in category 5, the maximum on the NHC scale, with winds of up to 300 km/h.

The hurricane had a “catastrophic effect”, according to Jamaican authorities. At least three deaths have already been confirmed from causes related to the natural phenomenon, according to the Jamaican Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Melissa had already caused four other deaths during the week before arriving in Jamaica. There were three deaths in Haiti, and one in the Dominican Republic.

Jamaican Prime Minister declared a disaster in the country. Andrew Holness also renewed a trade order that prevents price increases to “prevent any exploitation of the population at a time when citizens are securing food, water and supplies.” The UN (United Nations) has been working to send supplies to Jamaicans affected by the hurricane.