It also marks the first time in 20 years that three or more Category 5 hurricanes have developed over the Atlantic Basin in one season. The last time was in 2005, when Hurricanes Emily, Katrina, Rita, and Wilma all reached Category 5—breaking a record.

Hurricane Melissa has hit southwestern Jamaica as a catastrophic Category 5 storm, causing heavy flooding and wind damage.

These storms are the most intense that the Earth can produce. Melissa, Humberto and Erin were added to the list of rare storms in 2025.

The National Hurricane Center pleaded with Jamaicans to "remain sheltered!" as the already-deadly storm churned just offshore. One measure of Melissa's frightening potential for destruction: It already ranked as the 7th strongest Atlantic hurricane on record, beating out Katrina. And forecasters said it could still get stronger.

Emergency water systems and medical teams deployed to Jamaica following Category 5 Hurricane Melissa with additional Samaritan's Purse relief flights planned.

Article last updated: Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025, 1 a.m. ET

Hurricane Melissa made landfall in Jamaica as a Category 5 storm with wind speeds of up to 185 miles per hour. Live cameras are showing the damaging impacts of Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica a day after it made landfall.

Arthur Blank, owner of the Atlanta Falcons, has pledged an initial $2.5 million through his foundation to aid Hurricane Melissa relief efforts across Jamaica and the Caribbean.