National Hurricane Center Upgrades Hurricane Melissa to 190 mph, Tying Hurricane Allen as Strongest Atlantic Storm Ever Recorded
Atlantic Basin — The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has officially upgraded Hurricane Melissa’s peak sustained winds to 190 miles per hour in its post-storm analysis, tying the storm with Hurricane Allen as the strongest Atlantic hurricane ever recorded based on wind speed.
The revision places Melissa in rare historical territory. At 190 mph, it now shares the top position in Atlantic hurricane records, equaling Allen’s long-standing benchmark for peak sustained winds .
A Historic Upgrade in Post-Season Analysis
The NHC conducts detailed post-storm reviews after hurricane seasons conclude, reassessing satellite data, aircraft reconnaissance findings, and observational reports. In this case, that review determined that Melissa’s peak winds were stronger than originally estimated.
With the upgrade to 190 mph, Melissa now matches Allen as the most intense Atlantic hurricane on record when measured strictly by maximum sustained wind speed .
Wind speed is one of the primary benchmarks used to rank hurricane intensity. Sustained winds of 190 mph place a storm firmly in the highest tier of tropical cyclone strength, capable of catastrophic damage.
Impact on Western Jamaica
Imagery associated with the storm shows the eye of Melissa positioned near western Jamaica, an area that experienced significant impacts during the hurricane’s passage .
Reports indicate that parts of western Jamaica were dramatically altered by the storm’s force. Winds at this intensity can flatten structures, uproot trees, and reshape coastal landscapes. Even well-built infrastructure can sustain severe damage under such extreme conditions.
The upgrade underscores just how powerful the storm was at its peak.
What Makes 190 mph So Significant
To put the number in context:
- Category 5 hurricanes begin at 157 mph
- Melissa’s 190 mph peak exceeds that threshold by more than 30 mph
- Only a handful of storms in recorded Atlantic history have reached similar intensity
While central pressure and overall storm structure also contribute to impact, peak sustained winds are a key measurement in historical rankings.
The post-analysis revision cements Melissa’s place in the Atlantic hurricane record books.
Looking Ahead
Although the upgrade changes historical records, it does not alter the impacts already experienced by communities in the storm’s path. Instead, it highlights the importance of continued advancements in satellite technology and storm analysis.
Hurricanes of this intensity remain rare but serve as reminders of the destructive potential within the Atlantic Basin during peak season.
For continued coverage of major weather developments and historic storm updates, visit NapervilleLocal.com for in-depth reporting and analysis.
Author: Avery Hughes Category: Naperville News & Weather Reporter
I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.