Reports indicate that the world’s strongest storm of the year is approaching Jamaica, with warnings of “catastrophic and life-threatening” conditions.
According to a report by the BBC, many Jamaicans have been evacuated, but the slow speed of Melissa’s approach has made for an anxiety-ridden few days.
Forecasters believe the storm could be the strongest hurricane ever to hit Jamaica, with winds of 175mph (282km/h).
“This is a hazardous and life-threatening situation,” the US National Hurricane Centre (NHC) warns.
NHC, therefore, cautions people on the island to “take cover now.”
According to the NHC, if people fail to “adequately shelter,” it could result in serious injury or loss of life.
“To protect yourself from wind, the best thing you can do is put as many walls as possible between you and the outside,” the centre said.
