KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Meteorological Service of Jamaica (Met Service) is warning Jamaicans, particularly those living along the coastline, to be prepared for life-threatening storm surges which could reach heights of up to 15 feet, as Hurricane Melissa moves closer to the island.

According to the Met Service, the weather system is already causing rough seas and rising tides, with waves beginning to threaten sections of the coastline, including the Rae Town Fishing Village in downtown Kingston.

The Jamaica Observer visited Rae Town just before midday on Sunday and observed that the tides were already becoming increasingly rough, prompting fishermen to begin bringing in their boats in preparation for worsening conditions.

Speaking on the issue of storm surge, Evan Thompson, principal director of the Met Service, noted that this is often an overlooked threat during major storms, but previous hurricanes such as Ivan and Dean have taught Jamaica that it can be extremely dangerous.

Thompson explained that storm surge is “also a flooding event but it is not the flooding from the rainfall. It is flooding that comes in with the waters of the sea”.

He further warned, “With these tremendous winds that a Category 4 hurricane could produce that will push the water of the sea onto the shoreline and with it takes houses and communities possibly back into the sea.”

As Hurricane Melissa continues to approach, residents in low-lying and coastal areas are being urged to take precautions, evacuate if necessary and monitor official updates from the Met Service and disaster management authorities.