Hurricane Melissa Evacuations Underway Amid Weather Changes in Florida

ORLANDO, Fla. – Florida continues to respond to the impacts of powerful Hurricane Melissa, which made landfall in Jamaica as a Category 5 storm earlier this week. On Saturday, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the successful evacuation of 28 Floridians from Jamaica, following extensive damage caused by the hurricane.

The Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) initiated evacuation efforts on Friday. Local officials assisted in coordinating the safe return of residents. The rescue flight departed Jamaica Saturday morning and landed at Tampa International Airport.

Governor DeSantis expressed gratitude towards the emergency management officials, stating, “Today’s operation in Jamaica brings stranded Floridians home in the wake of Hurricane Melissa.” Hurricane Melissa not only resulted in the evacuation efforts but also caused catastrophic destruction in Jamaica, with maximum sustained winds reaching up to 185 mph.

FDEM Executive Director Kevin Guthrie noted, “This rapid response reflects the strength of Florida’s emergency management system and our commitment to providing timely support.” As the situation evolves, the state aims to provide additional assistance to affected residents.

Looking ahead in Florida’s weather forecast, a gradual warming pattern has begun across Central Florida as a weak low-pressure system approaches the Southeast coast. During the weekend, high temperatures are expected to range from the upper 70s to low 80s, with the potential for isolated showers. A cooler air mass will arrive next week, lowering temperatures into the low to mid-70s.

Despite the warmer temperatures ahead, residents are still reeling from the impacts of Hurricane Melissa. Many neighborhoods continue to deal with challenges from recent rainstorms and flooding, as local officials work to ensure the community’s recovery.

As state and local agencies respond to these disasters, Governor DeSantis reaffirmed their commitment to aiding those affected by both the hurricane and changing weather conditions in Florida.