Tropical Storm Melissa Aims to Strengthen into Hurricane, Threatens Caribbean

Tropical Storm Melissa is on track to strengthen into a hurricane, with forecasters warning of severe rainfall and life-threatening flooding in the northern Caribbean. An alarming total of up to **35 inches (89 centimeters)** of rain is expected in southwest Haiti. The storm’s slow movement has already resulted in the deaths of at least **three individuals in Haiti** and one in the Dominican Republic, with another person reported missing.

As of Saturday, Melissa was located approximately **180 miles (290 kilometers)** southeast of Kingston, Jamaica, and **245 miles (390 kilometers)** southwest of Port-au-Prince, Haiti. The storm had maximum sustained winds of **65 mph (100 kph)** and was moving northwest at just **3 mph (6 kph)**, according to the **U.S. National Hurricane Center**.

Severe Weather Warnings and Preparations

Authorities have issued a hurricane watch and tropical storm warning for Jamaica and the southwestern peninsula of Haiti. Jamie Rhome, the deputy director of the U.S. National Hurricane Center, emphasized the potential for “catastrophic flooding” if the forecasted rains materialize. Up to **25 inches (64 centimeters)** of rain is also anticipated for Jamaica and the southern regions of Haiti and the Dominican Republic through Monday.

Forecasters predict that Melissa could develop into a major hurricane by Sunday and may reach **Category 4 status** by early Monday. The storm is expected to make landfall in eastern Cuba on Wednesday, where some areas could receive up to **12 inches (30 centimeters)** of rain.

In response to the impending storm, Jamaican Prime Minister **Andrew Holness** urged citizens to take the weather threat seriously, stating, “Take all measures to protect yourself.” He also noted that all airports would close within **24 hours** of a hurricane warning being issued. Over **650 shelters** have been activated across the island, and officials report that warehouses are well-stocked with supplies for quick distribution if necessary.

Impact on Infrastructure and Communities

In the Dominican Republic, the storm has already caused significant damage, affecting nearly **200 homes** and disrupting water supply systems for more than **500,000 customers**. The storm has downed trees and traffic lights, triggered small landslides, and left numerous communities isolated due to floodwaters.

Melissa marks the **13th named storm** of the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30. The **U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration** had previously forecast an above-normal hurricane season, predicting **13 to 18 named storms**.

As the storm progresses, residents in the affected areas are advised to stay informed through official channels and to prepare for possible evacuations and severe weather conditions. The full impact of Tropical Storm Melissa will become clearer in the coming days as it approaches land.