What's Happening?
Tropical Storm Melissa has intensified into a Category 1 hurricane and is expected to strengthen further over the weekend, according to the National Hurricane Center. The storm is currently moving northwest
with sustained winds of 75 mph. It poses a significant threat to the Caribbean, particularly southern Haiti and Jamaica, where life-threatening flash flooding and landslides are anticipated. As of Friday evening, the storm was located about 165 miles southeast of Kingston, Jamaica. Hurricane warnings are in effect for Jamaica, while hurricane watches remain for Haiti’s southwestern peninsula. Rainfall totals of 10 to 20 inches are expected in southwestern Haiti and eastern Jamaica, with potential for higher amounts. The storm is forecast to approach Jamaica as a major hurricane by Sunday, with winds exceeding 110 mph.
Why It's Important?
The intensification of Hurricane Melissa poses a severe risk to the Caribbean region, particularly Haiti and Jamaica, which are vulnerable to natural disasters. The expected heavy rainfall and strong winds could lead to catastrophic flash flooding, landslides, and significant damage to infrastructure. This situation is particularly concerning for Jamaica, as it could be the strongest hurricane to impact the island in over 35 years, potentially surpassing the devastation caused by Hurricane Gilbert in 1988. The storm's impact on energy infrastructure could result in widespread power outages, affecting daily life and economic activities. The humanitarian implications are significant, with potential displacement and increased need for emergency response and aid.
What's Next?
Hurricane Melissa is expected to continue its path through the Caribbean, affecting Jamaica from Sunday through at least Tuesday. The storm is projected to move slowly, prolonging the period of heavy rain and increasing the risk of severe flooding and landslides. After impacting Jamaica, Melissa is forecast to cross southern Cuba and reach the central or southern Bahamas by mid-next week. Authorities in the affected regions are likely to ramp up emergency preparedness efforts, including evacuations and resource mobilization, to mitigate the storm's impact. International aid organizations may also prepare to assist in the aftermath, particularly in Haiti, which has limited resources to cope with such disasters.
