The storm, which is the most powerful recorded this year, is expected to bring with it up to 40 inches of rain and “life-threatening storm surges” that could peak 13ft above ground level.

Hurricane Melissa is approaching Jamaica as a powerful Category 5 storm with 175 mph winds.

It is expected to slice diagonally across the island, entering near St. Elizabeth parish in the south and exiting around St. Ann parish in the north, before heading for Cuba.