Hurricane Melissa intensifies to a Category 5 storm as it barrels towards Jamaica

Weather Conditions & Impact - Hurricane Melissa is now a strong category 5 storm, posing a significant threat to Jamaica [1] - The storm is expected to intensify, with uncertain landfall impact on Jamaica [1] - Palm trees are swaying, and water is becoming choppy, indicating worsening conditions [1] - Entire areas are expected to be underwater within 24 to 48 hours [2] Government Actions & Public Response - Government officials are urging locals and tourists to band together and hunker down [1] - Mandatory evacuations have been issued by the government in low-lying communities [2] - Some residents in low-lying communities initially refused to evacuate [2] - Buses were staged in some communities to facilitate evacuations [2]