Hurricane Melissa is most powerful storm to hit Jamaica in island's recorded history

Hurricane Impact and Intensity - Hurricane Melissa made landfall in Jamaica as a Category 5 storm with maximum sustained winds of 185 miles per hour [1] - The storm is described as one of the strongest hurricanes on record in the Atlantic Ocean and the most powerful to hit Jamaica in recorded history [1] - The National Hurricane Center warned of life-threatening and catastrophic impacts, including flash flooding and landslides [2] - The storm weakened after landfall due to mountainous terrain but was expected to reorganize over open water [10][11] - Wind speeds were expected to range from 140 to 160 miles per hour [29] Affected Areas and Infrastructure - Kingston was experiencing tropical storm force winds and heavy rainfall [3][4] - Montego Bay was expected to experience significant damage to high-rise buildings and infrastructure [12][13] - Areas from Montego Bay to Falmouth were expected to face infrastructure tests [13] - St Elizabeth, the "bread basket of Jamaica," was expected to be heavily impacted, potentially increasing the cost of goods [25] Evacuation and Sheltering - The Jamaican government opened over 100 shelters across the island [16] - There was concern that not many people were using the shelters as the storm approached [16] - Some residents in low-lying communities chose not to evacuate, despite warnings [7][17] Casualties and Injuries - Three lives were lost, and about 13 people were injured while preparing for the storm [7] Post-Storm Needs - Jamaica is expected to need food, money, toiletries, lotions, towels, and blankets [24][25][26] - The cost of goods is expected to increase [25]