Hurricane Melissa is barreling toward Jamaica and is expected to make landfall in less than two days, potentially becoming one of the worst storms in the island's history. As the massive hurricane approaches, Tampa Bay residents with family in Jamaica are anxiously reaching out to loved ones while preparing for the worst-case scenario.

Tampa has a large Caribbean community, and many residents are closely monitoring the storm's progress as their family members brace for impact on the island.

"That's the scary part. That's the scary part," said Corian Woods, a Tampa resident with family in Jamaica.

Andrew Ashmeade, owner of Jerk Hut Island Grill, recently spoke with his sister on the island about the preparations underway.

"I literally just got off the phone with my sister. Everybody is

See Full Page