Tropical Storm Melissa Advances Through Caribbean, Threatens Heavy Rain and Flooding

Tropical Storm Melissa is progressing through the Caribbean Sea, posing significant risks of heavy rainfall and flooding to Jamaica, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic. As of Wednesday night, the storm exhibited maximum sustained winds of 50 mph and was moving westward at 2 mph, situated approximately 335 miles south-southwest of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, and 295 miles south-southeast of Kingston, Jamaica.

Authorities have implemented precautionary measures in anticipation of the storm's impact. In the Dominican Republic, President Luis Abinader announced the closure of schools, public offices, and nonessential businesses in nine provinces. Over half a million residents are experiencing water service disruptions, and shelters have been established to accommodate evacuees. In Jamaica, officials have prepared 881 shelters, transitioned schools to remote learning, and closed courts.

Evan Thompson, director of Jamaica's Meteorological Service, indicated that the island's eastern region could receive up to 12 inches of rain. Similar rainfall amounts are expected in southern Haiti and the southern Dominican Republic through Saturday, raising concerns about potential flash flooding and landslides.

The U.S. National Hurricane Center forecasts that Melissa may strengthen into a hurricane by Friday and potentially become a major hurricane by the weekend. A hurricane watch is in effect for the southwestern peninsula of Haiti, while a tropical storm watch has been issued for Jamaica. Residents in these areas are advised to stay informed and take necessary precautions as the storm approaches.

Melissa is the 13th named storm of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season and the first to form in the Caribbean this year. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30.