As Hurricane Melissa approaches Jamaica, residents are feeling the weight of both the storm and its emotional impact. The slow-moving storm is causing concerns about flooding and landslides.
Michael Taylor, a climate scientist at the University of the West Indies, shared insights on the situation. “This storm has been crawling along at just 5 mph (8 km/h), which is leading to heavy rain,” he explained. This prolonged rainfall could lead to serious flooding and damage to infrastructure. He warns that Jamaica’s hilly terrain increases the risk of landslides.
The psychological toll is significant too. Taylor describes this experience as a “psychological marathon” for those waiting for the storm to pass. He notes that many people were already fatigued before the storm even arrived.
While urban areas like Kingston have seen improvements in infrastructure, rural and informal settlements remain at high risk. “Utilities have done their best to strengthen their systems,” he said, but the situation across the country is mixed.
In preparation, people are gathering essentials. Many are filling up water containers, charging devices, and putting together emergency kits to weather the storm. “We’re just trying to hold on,” Taylor said, highlighting the resilience of the community.
Recent studies indicate that climate change is contributing to more intense storms, altering weather patterns globally. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported that storms like Melissa could become more frequent and severe.
For those in Jamaica, the focus now is on staying safe and ready as the storm makes its way closer.
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