Was climate change to blame for the strength of Hurricane Melissa?
Summary
Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 hurricane, hit Jamaica and Cuba, causing significant damage. A study by World Weather Attribution found that climate change made the hurricane's rapid intensification six times more likely and increased both wind speeds and rainfall. The Caribbean Sea's warmer temperatures played a key role in the hurricane's development.Key Facts
- Hurricane Melissa hit Jamaica and Cuba as a Category 5 hurricane.
- It was one of the strongest Atlantic hurricanes on record, with 185 mph winds at landfall in Jamaica.
- Climate change increased the likelihood of the hurricane's rapid growth by six times.
- Warmer Caribbean Sea temperatures (1.5°C above average) helped the storm strengthen quickly.
- The World Weather Attribution study found climate change increased rainfall by 16% and wind speeds by 7%.
- Cuba evacuated over 700,000 people ahead of the hurricane to ensure safety.
- The hurricane caused severe damage to infrastructure and agriculture in affected areas.
- The findings come ahead of the United Nations Climate Change conference, highlighting the impact of climate change on vulnerable regions.
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