In brief
Tropical Storm Melissa is poised to become a major hurricane as it approaches Jamaica and Haiti, with catastrophic flooding and landslide risks highlighted in warnings. With heavy rains expected to persist for days, local populations are encouraged to evacuate and prepare for emergency conditions.
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) — Tropical Storm Melissa is stationed in the central Caribbean, with forecasters predicting it could intensify and affect Jamaica as a hurricane while bringing catastrophic rainfall to southwest Haiti—up to 35 inches (89 cm)—prompting warnings for severe flooding and landslides.
The storm, located about 215 miles southeast of Kingston, Jamaica, and 225 miles southwest of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, boasts maximum sustained winds of 65 mph (100 kph) and is moving at a very slow pace northward at 2 mph (4 kph).
A hurricane watch and tropical storm warning are currently active for Jamaica and Haiti's southwest peninsula. The National Hurricane Center has stated the storm may result in catastrophic flash flooding, particularly affecting the Tiburon Peninsula in Haiti. Heavy rainfall is forecasted to linger in local areas for several days.
As reported, three fatalities occurred in Haiti due to storm-related hazards, and one individual has died while another remains missing in the Dominican Republic, highlighting the storm's destructive potential as it progresses.
Local authorities, including Haiti’s Civil Protection Agency, are taking preemptive measures, setting up over 100 emergency shelters in the southern region of Haiti. Residents like Wilgar Joseph expressed concern and took precautions by relocating to safer locations. Meanwhile, those residing in makeshift shelters, displaced by gang violence, voiced their fears of further lacking safety amid the storm.
In Jamaica, citizens are urged to remain vigilant, taking shelter preparations seriously as Prime Minister Andrew Holness remarked on the detrimental effects of the storm's slow movement. Schools and government facilities are closing as response plans advance to secure the population against a humanitarian crisis.
Jamaica could see life-threatening flooding, and experts are noting that some areas may endure hurricane conditions for 72 hours or longer. Consequently, preparedness is paramount, with communities taking action to secure their homes and gather essential supplies.
In the Dominican Republic, flooding has already impacted nearly 200 homes and caused significant public disruption, exemplifying the storm's devastation. Local officials stress the need for immediate action to save lives as these severe weather events unfold.
Tropical Storm Melissa, identified as the 13th named storm of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, emphasizes the need for vigilance and preparation in light of these climatic challenges experienced by vulnerable communities.
