Jamaica, Haiti Brace For Powerful Hurricane Matthew

Hurricane warnings are in effect for Jamaica, Haiti, eastern Cuba and the southeastern Bahamas as the Caribbean destinations brace for a powerful Hurricane Matthew, which could make landfall by tonight.

The centre of the storm is expected to approach southwestern Haiti and Jamaica sometime today (Oct. 3) with heavy rainfall and strong winds – possibly resulting in flash floods and mudslides.

According to the US National Weather Service, Matthew could dump up to 25 inches of rain on southern Haiti, including 40 inches in isolated areas.

Over the weekend, Jamaican officials opened storm shelters ahead of the hurricane. It’s reported that Norman Manley International Airport near Kingston planned to shut down early today for at least 24 hours.