Hurricane Melissa: A Caribbean Catastrophe – Level 2

Hurricane Melissa is currently making its way through the Caribbean, having been described as the storm of the century in Jamaica. The World Meteorological Organization has called it the worst in the country’s history. The hurricane made landfall on the southwest coast of Jamaica and, after crossing the island, is now heading towards Cuba. It is expected to reach the Bahamas, which are located near the state of Florida, USA.

Although it has lost some strength, Hurricane Melissa formed as a Category 5 hurricane, the maximum level on the scale, indicating a high potential for destruction. The storm has tragically resulted in seven fatalities: three in Jamaica, three in Haiti, and one in the Dominican Republic. Jamaican authorities have reported severe damage to public infrastructure, including hospitals, and stated that over half a million residents are without power. The Red Cross estimates that 1.5 million people will be directly affected by the storm. Scientists attribute the hurricane’s intensity to the unusually warm waters of the Caribbean, which fuel the storm with more water vapor and heat, increasing its power. The slow movement of the hurricane’s eye is also a major concern, as it allows the storm to remain over a region for longer, increasing its destructive potential.

New Words:

1. Authorities: The people or organizations that have the power to make decisions and enforce laws.
Example: The local authorities issued a warning for everyone to stay indoors.

2. Infrastructure: The basic systems and services that a country or organization needs to function, such as roads, bridges, and power supplies.
Example: The war caused severe damage to the country’s infrastructure.

3. Affected: To be influenced or impacted by an event or situation.
Example: Many families were affected by the recent economic crisis.