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Storm Alert: Hurricane Melissa Nears Usain Bolt's Home; Lyles & Coleman Rally Support For Jamaica

Published 3 hours ago2 minute read
Uche Emeka
Uche Emeka
Storm Alert: Hurricane Melissa Nears Usain Bolt's Home; Lyles & Coleman Rally Support For Jamaica

Hurricane Melissa, described by a UN agency as the "storm of the century," made catastrophic landfall in Jamaica on Tuesday, unleashing devastating 185 mph winds, widespread flooding, and extensive power outages across the island nation. Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness issued a dire warning about the severe consequences as the hurricane continues its destructive path across the Caribbean.

Maps tracking the storm's trajectory indicate that the parishes of Kingston, Portland, Saint Mary, and Saint James are among the most vulnerable areas. This places numerous high-profile celebrity properties at significant risk. Olympic legend Usain Bolt's home is reportedly located within one of these heavily impacted zones. Hours before the hurricane struck, Bolt posted a prayer for the safety of his fellow citizens. Other prominent figures from Kingston whose properties are threatened include reggae and dancehall artists Damian Marley and Sean Paul. International celebrities with ties to the island are also at risk, including DJ Diplo's recording studio in Port Antonio and a long-time residence of fashion designer Ralph Lauren. The historic home of the late James Bond author, Ian Fleming, could also face substantial damage.

In the wake of the disaster, several American track athletes have extended their support to Jamaica. Olympic champion Noah Lyles, whose fiancée Junelle Bromfield is from Jamaica, reposted a message of 'Praying for Jamaica' on his X page. Diamond League champion Christian Coleman also tweeted, "Prayers to Jamaica. Yall be safe!" Additionally, veteran 400m runner Vernon Norwood wrote on his X page, "Tuh all mi Jamaicans stay safe!!"

Hurricane Melissa has already proven to be deadly, with reports confirming a total of seven fatalities across the region: three in Jamaica, three in Haiti, and one in the Dominican Republic. The full extent of the destruction and loss is still being assessed, but early indications point to a major natural disaster with widespread devastation.

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