On Tuesday, October 28, meteorologist John Morales was stunned during NBC 6’s forecast of Hurricane Melissa heading toward the Jamaican coast when he learned the storm’s pressure had fallen to 896 millibars.
Hurricane Melissa Crushed the Weather Expert
On Tuesday morning, October 28, John Morales presented an NBC 6 forecast about Hurricane Melissa heading toward the Jamaican coast. At one point another meteorologist informed him that the maximum sustained wind speed was 180 miles per hour. “Okay, 180. What’s the pressure?” Morales asked. “The pressure has now dropped to 896 millibars,” the meteorologist replied.
“Oh my Jesus Christ,” Morales sighed, placing his hand on his forehead. “Okay, fine. I’m just going to grab a handful,” he said a moment later and continued the program.
Why the Expert Reacted So Strongly
According to NBC Miami, the atmospheric pressure in a hurricane’s eye determines its force. The lower the pressure, the stronger and more dangerous the storm becomes. Morales was alarmed by the drop in pressure. He also noted that Hurricane Melissa had surpassed the record of the earlier storm, Milton. Only one hurricane has been stronger in October and November on the Atlantic in recent history—Hurricane Wilma, which occurred 20 years ago.
When Could the Hurricane End?
BBC reports that hurricanes weaken when they hit land, with winds decreasing as the storm dissipates. However, rain‑filled storms can persist for several days. The World Meteorological Organization says a hurricane can last from 24 hours to even a month. CNN journalists reported Wednesday that Hurricane Melissa reached Cuba as a Category 3 storm and was causing further damage, with broken trees and damaged buildings.
