Hurricane Melissa: A Powerful Storm Hits the Caribbean – Level 3

Hurricane Melissa, the most formidable hurricane to threaten Jamaica in its recorded history of 175 years, has escalated to a maximum-strength Category 5 storm. With sustained winds exceeding 290 km/h, the hurricane is poised to cause catastrophic damage. Forecasters predict it will unleash over 90 centimeters of rain, leading to coastal storm surges of nearly 4 meters. Jamaica’s Prime Minister, Andrew Holness, has expressed a grim outlook, ordering evacuations for high-risk zones and stating he doubts any local infrastructure can withstand Melissa’s power. An estimated 50,000 people are at risk of losing their homes. Jamie Rome, from the U.S. National Hurricane Center, warned that hurricane conditions could persist over Jamaica for more than 24 hours, with tropical storm conditions lasting up to three days, potentially isolating communities. After passing Jamaica, Melissa is projected to weaken to a still-powerful Category 4 before making landfall in southern Cuba. In preparation, Cuba has ordered 900,000 citizens to evacuate.

New Words:

1. Infrastructure: The basic physical and organizational structures and facilities (e.g., buildings, roads, power supplies) needed for the operation of a society.
Example: The war caused significant damage to the country’s infrastructure.

2. Catastrophic: Involving or causing sudden great damage or suffering.
Example: The oil spill was a catastrophic event for the local wildlife.

3. Persist: To continue to exist or happen for a long time.
Example: If the symptoms persist, you should see a doctor.
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