Storm Chasers Take You Inside Hurricane Melissa’s Eye in Thrilling Footage

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Storm Chasers Take You Inside Hurricane Melissa’s Eye in Thrilling Footage

A crew from the US Air Force Reserve, famously dubbed the “Hurricane Hunters,” undertook a daring mission on Monday. They flew directly into the heart of Hurricane Melissa, a powerful category five storm. Their objective was to gather crucial data for the National Hurricane Center.

Hurricane Melissa: A Record-Breaking Storm

As the world’s strongest storm of 2025, Hurricane Melissa boasted wind speeds reaching 175 mph (282 km/h). This immense power underscores the hurricane’s dangerous potential.

Forecasted Path and Impact

Hurricane Melissa is projected to make landfall in Jamaica late Monday or early Tuesday. Following its landfall in Jamaica, the storm will likely traverse eastern Cuba and the Bahamas.

Key Facts about Hurricane Melissa

  • Designation: Category Five Hurricane
  • Wind Speeds: 175 mph (282 km/h)
  • Date of Flight: Monday
  • Expected Landfall: Late Monday or early Tuesday in Jamaica
  • Subsequent Path: Eastern Cuba and the Bahamas

The Hurricane Hunters play a vital role in understanding storms like Hurricane Melissa. Their firsthand observations help improve forecasting and preparedness, crucial for the safety of communities in the storm’s projected path.