A US Air Force WC-130J Super Hercules aircraft, operated by the renowned “Hurricane Hunters,” has successfully penetrated the eye of the exceptionally powerful Hurricane Melissa. This Category 5 storm, the strongest of 2025, presented a remarkable “stadium effect,” a rare meteorological phenomenon where eyewall clouds curve outward with altitude, creating a stadium-like appearance from above. The daring flight captured stunning aerial footage, offering unprecedented insights into the storm’s structure.
The mission’s primary objective was to gather vital data for the National Hurricane Center, crucial for refining forecasts and implementing safety measures as Hurricane Melissa approached Jamaica. The storm made landfall as the most intense hurricane to impact the island in over 170 years.
Footage shared on social media platform X showcased the awe-inspiring “stadium effect.” The videos provided multiple perspectives of the aircraft navigating the storm’s core, including a dramatic sunrise pass and an exit sequence. This data is invaluable for understanding and predicting the behavior of such extreme weather events.
Even before its official landfall, Hurricane Melissa unleashed destructive conditions. Jamaica recorded three fatalities, while Haiti and the Dominican Republic collectively reported at least four deaths and one missing person. The island nation braced for a significant storm surge, with projections indicating up to 13 feet along the coast of Kingston. This surge posed a severe threat to essential infrastructure, including the primary international airport and power generation facilities. Widespread power outages affected over 50,000 residents, accompanied by reports of landslides, downed trees, and disrupted power lines.