Hurricane Melissa threatens Jamaica in late October ^{CEFR A2}

Melissa moved across the central Caribbean in late October. On Monday October 20 the system was a tropical storm and the Jamaica Meteorological Office issued warnings about heavy rain and strong gusty winds. A week later the met office website was inaccessible with a "Too Many Requests" message, and many Jamaicans used WhatsApp to share observations and official updates.

By October 21 WhatsApp chats showed growing concern and parliament held heated debate. Prime Minister Andrew Holness declared Jamaica a "threatened area" and issued a trade order to stop price gouging of essentials such as food, water, medical supplies, building materials and emergency equipment. On October 24 a hurricane warning was issued and on October 25 Melissa became a hurricane; the National Hurricane Center forecast further strengthening to a Cat 3 storm. Authorities opened about 130 shelters and prepared for power and infrastructure damage.