The tropical storm known as Melissa is gaining strength over the western Caribbean. According to the most recent update from the United States' National Hurricane Center (NHC), Melissa has the potential to develop into a hurricane within the next few hours, and it could escalate to a major hurricane by Sunday.
In its 8:00 p.m. EDT advisory (Miami time), the NHC reported that Melissa's maximum sustained winds have reached 65 mph (100 km/h), with stronger gusts, and is slowly moving northward at a pace of only 4 km/h. The storm's central minimum pressure is recorded at 993 millibars.
The center of the storm was positioned approximately 310 kilometers southeast of Kingston, Jamaica, and 360 kilometers southwest of Port-au-Prince, Haiti.
Potential Hurricane Impact
The NHC anticipates that Melissa will rapidly intensify and transition into a hurricane by Saturday, continuing its gradual westward movement. If it maintains this path, the storm could pass over Jamaica early next week and approach eastern Cuba between Tuesday and Wednesday.
"A rapid intensification is expected in the coming days," the report highlighted. "Melissa could become a hurricane by Saturday and a major hurricane by Sunday."
Catastrophic Rainfall and Flooding Risks
The NHC has issued warnings that rains linked to Melissa are already causing floods and landslides in parts of southern Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Over the next few days, rainfall totals of 15 to 25 inches (380 to 635 mm) are expected in Jamaica and southern Hispaniola, with maximum accumulations reaching up to 35 inches (890 mm) in Haiti's Tiburon Peninsula.
In southeastern Cuba, forecasts predict rainfall ranging from 4 to 8 inches (100 to 200 mm), with local peaks up to 12 inches (300 mm), potentially leading to flooding and landslides in susceptible areas.
Storm Surge Threat
The report also highlights the risk of storm surges along Jamaica's southern coast, with waves potentially reaching up to 10 feet (3 meters) above sea level and strong surf anticipated starting Sunday.
"Melissa's effects are expected to last several days due to its extremely slow movement," the U.S. meteorological agency emphasized.
Active Alerts
Hurricane alert: Southwest Haiti and Jamaica. Tropical storm warning: Same regions. The NHC noted that a hurricane warning for Jamaica might be issued soon, and advised residents of eastern Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and the Bahamas to stay alert for official updates.
The storm’s sluggish pace and its potential interaction with the mountainous terrain of Jamaica and Haiti heighten the likelihood of prolonged and devastating impacts in the area.
Upcoming Advisories
The National Hurricane Center will release its next complete advisory at 11:00 p.m. EDT. CubaHeadlines will continue to provide updates on Melissa's progression and its possible effects on Cuba and the Caribbean.
Melissa's Impact on the Caribbean: Key Questions Answered
What areas are currently under hurricane alert due to Melissa?
Southwest Haiti and Jamaica are under a hurricane alert.
What is the expected rainfall in southeastern Cuba from Melissa?
Southeastern Cuba can expect rainfall between 4 and 8 inches, with local peaks up to 12 inches.
When is Melissa expected to become a hurricane?
Melissa is expected to intensify into a hurricane by Saturday.
What are the potential consequences of Melissa's slow movement?
The slow movement increases the risk of prolonged impacts, such as extended rainfall and flooding.