The Deputy Director of the National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued a stark warning regarding Tropical Storm Melissa, stating that it is "virtually on the brink of becoming a hurricane." Due to its current characteristics and extremely slow movement, it should already be considered a hurricane.
In a Saturday update, the official highlighted the escalating danger in areas along the projected path—particularly emphasizing Jamaica. The system is expected to intensify quickly in the coming hours. "The situation is increasingly severe," he cautioned.
The NHC has described Melissa as a well-organized cyclone that is nearly at hurricane strength, with a pressure reading of around 982 mb and barely perceptible movement toward the west-northwest.
Impacts Beyond the Center
Officials urged not to focus solely on the storm's center, as severe impacts, especially rainfall, will be felt well ahead and far from the point of closest approach. "This is a case where you don't want to fixate on the center," he emphasized.
According to the update, Melissa's slow movement is expected to persist for three to four days, with a gradual westward turn between today and tonight. A rapid intensification process could elevate it to a major hurricane status between today and tomorrow, before nearing Jamaica between Tuesday night and Wednesday.
Subsequently, the NHC projects Melissa to head towards western Cuba by Wednesday, and then potentially impact the Turks and Caicos or southern Bahamas, still as a powerful hurricane.
Preparation Urged for At-Risk Areas
The official stressed that the southern and central Bahamas, as well as the Turks and Caicos, should begin preparations immediately.
Jamaica is currently under a hurricane warning, indicating that hurricane conditions are expected, while western Haiti remains under a hurricane watch and tropical storm warning.
The NHC highlighted that due to the storm's slow movement, accumulated rainfall will be the most destructive factor.
On the precipitation potential map, areas marked in deep purple—including Jamaica and western Haiti—are forecasted to receive 20 to 30 inches (50 to 75 cm) of rain, which the Deputy Director described as capable of causing catastrophic impacts.
For Jamaica, the NHC anticipates widespread power outages, communication disruptions, damaged bridges, impassable roads, and isolated communities.
The extreme rainfall risk may also extend to southwestern Cuba later in the forecast period as the rain bands and precipitation field expand.
"We are facing a very concerning situation unfolding," he said, urging people to contact family or friends on the island and expedite preparations.
The recommendation for areas under warning and watch is to follow local guidelines, assume Melissa is already acting as a hurricane, and take precautions against potential flooding and landslides.
Key Concerns and Preparations for Melissa
What areas are most at risk from Tropical Storm Melissa?
Jamaica is under a hurricane warning and is expected to face severe impacts. Western Haiti is also at risk, while the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos have been advised to prepare for potential impacts.
Why is the slow movement of Melissa concerning?
The storm's slow movement means prolonged exposure to heavy rainfall, increasing the risk of catastrophic flooding and other severe impacts in affected areas.
How should residents in affected areas prepare?
Residents should follow local authorities' instructions, prepare for hurricane conditions, and take preventive measures against flooding and landslides.