KINGSTON, Jamaica — Prime Minister Andrew Holness has declared Jamaica a disaster area following the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm that tore across the island causing widespread destruction and flooding.

The hurricane made landfall on Jamaica’s southern coast early Tuesday, unleashing torrential rains and winds exceeding 175 mph before exiting near Trelawny on the north coast later in the day.

Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie said the declaration followed recommendations from the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management after severe damage was reported across several parishes, including Clarendon, Manchester, St. Elizabeth, and Westmoreland.

McKenzie confirmed that extensive flooding and multiple landslides have cut off numerous communities, leaving many roads impassable. “By late Tuesday, several areas remained isolated due to rising waters and debris,” he said.

Forecasters warn that Melissa’s eye will continue to move away from western Jamaica by Tuesday evening before heading toward southeastern Cuba overnight.

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