(CNN) — Rescue efforts are underway across the Caribbean after Hurricane Melissa tore through the region as one of the most powerful Atlantic storms in more than 150 years.

Torrential downpours and forceful winds have already unleashed widespread destruction along the storm’s path in Jamaica, Cuba and the Bahamas.

Melissa is now headed for Bermuda as a Category 2 storm, where it won’t make landfall but will bring quick-hitting bursts of strong winds and rain as soon as late Thursday afternoon.

Authorities in Bermuda have closed the Causeway – a transport link connecting Bermuda’s main island with St. David’s Island – in preparation. All schools and ferries will also be shut on Friday, among other measures, out of an “abundance of caution,” said Michael Weeks, Bermuda’s national sec

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