The Cuban Institute of Meteorology (INSMET) released its first alert on Tuesday regarding Tropical Storm Melissa, which emerged in the morning over the central Caribbean Sea and could potentially intensify in the coming days. According to the official update, as of 11 a.m., the storm's center was positioned at 14.3 degrees North latitude and 71.7 degrees West longitude, roughly 480 kilometers south of Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Melissa is currently exhibiting maximum sustained winds of 85 kilometers per hour, with stronger gusts, and a central pressure measuring 1003 hectoPascals. INSMET's report highlighted that the storm is moving westward at approximately 22 kilometers per hour.
Meteorologists anticipate that the system will decelerate and gradually shift its path towards the northwest. The oceanic and atmospheric conditions are expected to become more conducive for its intensification as it slowly traverses the central Caribbean Sea, south of the Greater Antilles. Considering its potential trajectory and the time of year, INSMET is closely monitoring the development and movement of Tropical Storm Melissa, urging the Cuban public to stay informed through upcoming official updates.
While Melissa does not pose an immediate threat to Cuba, INSMET cautioned that its behavior might change if the system strengthens or alters its course. Experts reminded that such events could lead to heavy rains and gusty winds, emphasizing the importance of paying attention to the Forecasting Center's reports. The next tropical cyclone advisory on Melissa is scheduled for release at 6 p.m. this Tuesday, providing further details on its intensity and possible path.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) reported on Tuesday that Melissa's center is positioned at latitude 14.3 north and longitude 71.7 west, approximately 480 kilometers south of Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Melissa exhibits maximum sustained winds of 85 kilometers per hour, with stronger gusts, and a central pressure of 1003 millibars. It is moving westward at a speed of 22 kilometers per hour, and models suggest it may strengthen over the next 48 hours as it progresses through the central Caribbean.
The NHC issued a hurricane watch for Haiti's southern peninsula, stretching from the Dominican Republic border to Port-au-Prince. Additionally, the Jamaican government has declared a tropical storm watch for the entire island. These warnings indicate that hurricane or tropical storm conditions could be experienced within the next 48 hours.
In a previous advisory, the NHC indicated that a broad area of low pressure was organizing in the central Caribbean Sea, on the verge of becoming a tropical storm with significant potential impact on several Caribbean islands, including Cuba.
Understanding Tropical Storm Melissa's Potential Impact on the Caribbean
What is the current status of Tropical Storm Melissa?
As of the latest update, Tropical Storm Melissa is located at 14.3 degrees North latitude and 71.7 degrees West longitude, with maximum sustained winds of 85 kilometers per hour and a central pressure of 1003 millibars.
Is Tropical Storm Melissa a threat to Cuba?
Currently, Tropical Storm Melissa does not pose an immediate threat to Cuba. However, its behavior could change if the storm gains strength or alters its path.
What precautions are being advised for residents of the Caribbean?
Residents are advised to stay informed through official updates, as Melissa could bring heavy rains and strong winds. Specific watches have been issued for Haiti and Jamaica, indicating possible conditions within 48 hours.