Dawn Harper-Nelson Faces Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica

Two-time Olympic medalist Dawn Harper-Nelson and her husband, Alonzo Nelson, are currently stranded in Jamaica as they confront the devastating impacts of Hurricane Melissa. The storm has made headlines for its record-breaking winds, reaching up to 175 mph, as it approaches the island.

Harper-Nelson, a resident of East St. Louis, and her husband were in Jamaica for a business meeting when the hurricane formed. Their scheduled flight, initially set to depart on October 26, 2023, was canceled due to hazardous weather conditions. In a video shared on social media, the couple indicated they were near St. Bran’s Burg on Jamaica’s northwest coast, an area expected to face severe weather impacts.

Hurricane’s Path and Local Impact

Hurricane Melissa has made landfall near the southwest region of Jamaica, particularly affecting areas close to Whitehouse. Reports suggest that regions in Montego Bay may incur significant damage from powerful gusts near the hurricane’s eyewall. In preparation for the storm, the Jamaican government established approximately 900 shelters, yet only a few hundred residents have sought refuge in them.

On Monday, Harper-Nelson and her husband moved to a local shelter, where they voiced their concerns about the evacuation process. In a Facebook video, she expressed her disbelief at the situation, stating, “I’m just shocked. This is straight mayhem… I wasn’t ready, and this is just adding to the anxiety.”

Harper-Nelson is known for her accomplishments in athletics, having won gold at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and silver medals at the 2012 London Olympics and the 2017 World Championships. She is also scheduled to return as an analyst for NBC during the upcoming 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.

Storm Damage and Safety Concerns

As Hurricane Melissa continues to batter the island, the Jamaica Public Service reported that tens of thousands of households and businesses are without electricity. The storm is projected to bring severe rainfall, with estimates ranging from 15 to 30 inches, and isolated areas could see up to 40 inches. This heavy rainfall raises significant concerns about potential landslides, particularly given Jamaica’s hilly terrain.

According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), Hurricane Melissa could turn out to be one of the most severe storms the nation has ever encountered, prompting both local authorities and residents to brace for the worst.

As the situation unfolds, the impact of Hurricane Melissa on Jamaica and the safety of its residents, including those like Harper-Nelson, remains a priority. The couple continues to share updates on their experiences, highlighting the human element amidst this natural disaster.