Michael Hoines

At a loss for words, today has been absolutely incredible and it's not even over, I'm so glad we stayed out here for this. Episode 54 will forever hold a massive place in my heart. #Kilauea

Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica, an experience like I've never had before. Our full documentary of intercepting this storm will finally premiere this Friday...

Yet another stunning Aurora display on our Alaska Trip. Last night we drove 2 hours north of our cabin near Fairbanks to find a clear view, only to get socked in by clouds. We returned back to our cabin in defeat and got in the hot tub, but eventually noticed the clouds starting to clear and a green glow off to the north. For the next hour or so, we were treated to this incredible display that went overhead at times and had rapid naked eye movement/pulsation. Right as it started to calm down, the clouds filled back in and our view was gone. Just incredible luck. Here’s a super quick timelapse I put together from a couple of my favorite moments.

Here’s a few quick clips of what it was like inside the eyewall of #Melissa where we were at. Only have limited battery and cell service so this will be all I can share for now. LINK - youtu.be/R27gedc9V1s?si=heoM… @Healey_Photo @Hoines_

It’s pretty unfortunate to see the negative light being cast on Jamaica from some others on the platform, all from people who aren’t even here, so I wanted to share some of the positive things we’ve already seen. -We’ve met some incredibly kind and helpful people. The family ran condos we’ve been staying at have helped us find the best food still open in the area, shared their stories with us and made us laugh. -Every gas station and store we’ve gone into have been stocked with food and water, we’ve yet to see one completely empty shelf, even a day before landfall. There’s also been no shortage of gasoline yet like you’d usually see leading up to a storm. -Many places are boarded up and the streets in many communities were significantly less busy than when we arrived, many people are taking this seriously. I think those who may have doubted the storm at first have changed their tune. There’s no denying this is going to be a generational storm for the area and there are going to be tragic scenes after it’s gone, but the Jamaican people are strong and resilient. My thoughts are with you all and I hope everyone stays safe. We will continue to try and provide coverage in the most professional way possible. #Melissa

The morning before landfall, last minute preparations are underway as Category 5 Melissa approaches. All of the kind people we’ve met here seem to be taking this one seriously, hoping this thing weakens some on the final approach. #Melissa