Tropical Storm Melissa is expected to intensify into a high-intensity hurricane over the weekend, posing a serious threat of life-threatening rain, flooding, and strong winds to areas of Jamaica and the northern Caribbean, according to a report by CNN.
The storm has been moving slowly for several days, but forecasts indicate that Jamaica could experience the worst effects, including heavy rainfall, flash floods, and storm surges. Melissa is expected to make landfall late Monday (October 27) or early Tuesday (October 28).
Southern Haiti is also under serious threat from Melissa’s destructive rains and landslides.
Slow-Moving Melissa Already Causing Damage
Melissa’s slow progression has already caused significant flooding and landslides in Haiti and the Dominican Republic over the past week.
By Sunday, the storm is projected to escalate to a Category 4 hurricane, intensifying destructive winds, rains, and storm surges in southern Jamaica.
“This is a life-threatening situation and immediate preparations to protect life and property should be taken,” CNN reported.
Meteorologists have warned that Category 5 conditions cannot be ruled out, which could make Melissa the strongest hurricane on record to hit Jamaica.
Regions Most at Risk
The areas likely to face the heaviest impact include:
- Jamaica – extreme rainfall, flooding, and potential hurricane landfall
- Haiti – floods and landslides; three deaths reported, including two from landslides
- Southern Dominican Republic – at least one death, with over 1,000 displaced
- Eastern Cuba, Southern Bahamas, Turks and Caicos – storm surges and heavy rains
Rainfall could reach 25 inches in southwest Haiti and Jamaica by Tuesday, while eastern Cuba may see up to 8 inches. The hurricane center has cautioned about “extensive damage to roads and buildings” in Haiti.
Current Status and Forecast
As of October 25, Melissa is centered about 165 miles southeast of Kingston, Jamaica, according to CNN. The storm is forecasted to majorly affect Jamaica and the northern Caribbean, with a high likelihood of becoming a Category 4 hurricane over the coming days.
Residents in the path of Melissa are urged to take immediate safety precautions as heavy rains, flooding, and strong winds continue to threaten the region.
