Tropical Storm Melissa is barreling towards the Caribbean, with a high likelihood of intensifying into a hurricane in the next 24 to 48 hours. According to forecasters, the storm poses a significant threat to several island nations, including Haiti, the Dominican Republic, Cuba, and Jamaica.
ABC News reports that the Caribbean islands are bracing for days of heavy rain and severe winds that could lead to life-threatening landslides. The storm’s trajectory is expected to take it over water temperatures that are 4 to 5 degrees above average for this time of year, providing the necessary conditions for it to strengthen into a hurricane.
The National Weather Service has issued a hurricane watch for the southwestern peninsula of Haiti, from the border with the Dominican Republic to Port-Au-Prince, while a tropical storm watch has been issued for Jamaica. Aruba and Puerto Rico are also expected to experience some impacts from Melissa’s outer bands, but with less severity.
The storm is forecast to bring heavy rainfall to several regions, with the southern Dominican Republic, southern Haiti, and eastern Jamaica expected to receive 5 to 10 inches of rain through Saturday. This could lead to significant flash flooding and landslides in these areas. The northern Dominican Republic, northern Haiti, and western Jamaica are forecast to receive 2 to 4 inches of rain, with some flooding possible.
The storm is expected to approach Jamaica and the southwestern portion of Haiti later this week. The Atlantic hurricane season lasts until November 30, and residents in the affected areas are advised to take necessary precautions and follow updates from local authorities.
Meanwhile, the Dominica Metereological Service stated that though Hurricane Melissa does not currently pose a direct threat to Dominica, it forecasts predominantly overcast skies, intermittent scattered rain showers, and strong, gusty winds.
There is a marginal possibility of an isolated thunderstorm developing during the afternoon, and High Surf Advisory and a Small Craft Advisory are in effect during the next 24 hours.
Residents in regions susceptible to flooding, landslides, or falling rocks are urged to stay vigilant and exercise caution.
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