Jamaica braces for record-smashing Hurricane Melissa

Jamaica is bracing for what could be the most powerful storm in its recorded history as Hurricane Melissa bears down on the island with winds reaching up to 280 kilometres per hour. 

According to international correspondent, Adam Gilchrist, forecasters are warning of storm surges exceeding four metres and rainfall of up to half a metre, raising fears of catastrophic flooding and landslides.

Authorities have begun evacuating people in low-lying areas and urging residents to stay indoors as the hurricane makes its slow, punishing approach.

"At this stage, they are rating it a category five hurricane, the most fierce hurricane you can get and possibly Jamaica's worst ever in terms of the strength of the winds, the torrents and the rain since records began in the mid-19th century."

To listen to Gilchrist in conversation with 702's Bongani Bingwa, use the audio player below: