💨 Abstract

The US Air Force Hurricane Hunters flew through the eye of Hurricane Melissa before it hit Jamaica, collecting crucial meteorological data. The storm, the strongest in 174 years, caused significant damage and seven deaths across the Caribbean. The mission involved a Super Hercules aircraft and a WP-3D Orion, both encountering heavy turbulence. Jamaica declared a disaster area, with severe flooding and power outages expected. The mission occurred amid a US government shutdown, raising concerns about military pay.

Courtesy: Daisy Outram