Residents across Jamaica are taking shelter as Hurricane Melissa, now a Category 5 storm, bears down on the island with increasing intensity. The Jamaican government has ordered mandatory evacuations in parts of Kingston and other low lying coastal areas as officials warn of catastrophic winds, torrential rain, and life-threatening flooding.

The slow moving storm, which has already claimed at least four lives in Haiti and the Dominican Republic, continues to unleash heavy rain and tropical storm strength winds across Jamaica’s eastern parishes. Meteorologists warn that Melissa’s slow pace could result in prolonged rainfall and widespread landslides, particularly in mountainous regions.

Prime Minister Andrew Holness urged residents to prioritize safety and follow evacuation orders immediately.

“We must take this storm seriously,” Holness said in a televised address. “Every life is precious, and every precaution counts. Please move to safe shelters and stay tuned to official updates.”

The Jamaica Defence Force and emergency agencies have been deployed to assist with evacuations and relief operations, while airports and seaports have suspended operations until conditions improve.

The National Hurricane Center has issued warnings for hurricane force winds, storm surges, and flash flooding expected to intensify through the night as Melissa moves west northwest at less than 10 mph.