The most powerful storm of the year, Hurricane Melissa, has begun battering parts of the Caribbean, according to international news agencies.

Classified as a Category 5 hurricane, Melissa has already caused torrential rains across Haiti, leaving at least three people dead. Authorities reported that flights have been suspended in southern Haiti, while more than 3,000 residents have been moved to emergency shelters.

The U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC) stated that Melissa’s winds have reached speeds of up to 280 kilometers per hour (174 mph). The storm is expected to make landfall in Jamaica later today before moving toward eastern Cuba and the Bahamas.

In anticipation of the storm, Jamaican authorities have urged residents to evacuate low-lying areas and move to designated shelters.

Jamaican Prime Minister has warned of the potential for widespread destruction, emphasizing the government’s preparedness for emergency response operations.