Hurricane Melissa registers a gust of 405 km/h and breaks the world record for wind in a cyclone By Bruna
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A wind gust of 405.5 km/h was recorded within hurricane Melissa in October 2025. The measurement, carried out by a probe launched by a NOAA hunter plane, surpassed the previous record of 399 km/h from typhoon Megi, in 2010. The data was validated after detailed technical analysis.
The recording occurred during a flight over Caribe, when Melissa was category 5 and approaching Jamaica. The intensity of the turbulence forced the crew to halt the mission early.
- The probe measured the peak in the final seconds before hitting the ocean
- No other equipment can record winds in this region of the storm
- The value was transmitted in real time via satellite to Centro Nacional from Furacões
Technical validation of data
The Centro Nacional of Pesquisas Atmosféricas (NCAR) conducted rigorous testing on the probe used. Nenhum error or anomaly has been identified in the sensors or in the transmission process. Official certification took place on November 25, 2025.
Probes are launched in large numbers during hurricane missions. Elas descend by parachute and send data on pressure, temperature, humidity and wind speed several times per second.
Probe characteristics
The devices are cylindrical in shape and weigh around 400 grams. The parachute opens automatically after launch. Transmission occurs until impact with water.
The reading of 405.5 km/h occurred in the eye wall, the area of maximum winds. Esse environment precludes the use of fixed anemometers or ground stations.
Impact of Melissa on Jamaica
The hurricane made landfall at Jamaica as a category 5 in October. The counties of Westmoreland and Saint Elizabeth recorded almost total destruction of housing and infrastructure.
The combination of extreme winds and intense rain caused the collapse of electrical and telecommunications networks for days. Inundações prevented rapid access for rescue teams.
Effects on Haiti and balance
Outer bands of the cyclone reached Haiti and caused flooding and landslides. The total toll was 102 deaths, 54 in Jamaica and 43 in Haiti.
Economic losses in Jamaica reach US$ 10 billion. Melissa ranks among the most destructive cyclones in recent history.
Historical record of extreme winds
The previous record belonged to typhoon Megi, in Pacífico, since 2010. Melissa is the first hurricane in Atlântico to surpass the 400 km/h mark in direct measurement.
The 2025 season had already featured intense cyclones. Melissa was notable for rapid intensification before landfall.
