Overview of the Situation
The tropical storm Melissa, currently affecting the Caribbean, has been upgraded to a hurricane by the National Hurricane Center (NHC) of the United States. With sustained winds reaching 120 km/h, Melissa is expected to further strengthen over the weekend. The NHC warns that the storm could rapidly intensify and become a major hurricane by Sunday.
Impact on Affected Regions
- Haiti: Melissa has already claimed three lives in Haiti, as reported by local authorities. Residents in southwestern Haiti are advised to initiate immediate preparations to protect their lives and property, as the storm may cause significant infrastructure damage and prolonged community isolation.
- Jamaica: The hurricane is now heading towards Jamaica. Prime Minister Andrew Holness has urged residents in flood-prone areas to heed warnings and prepare for potential evacuations. Heavy rains from Melissa have already caused road flooding in the capital, Kingston.
- Dominican Republic: The storm is expected to bring heavy rainfall and strong winds, potentially causing sudden floods and landslides in the Dominican Republic.
Historical Context and Previous Impact
Melissa is the thirteenth tropical storm of the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from early June to late November. The last major hurricane to hit Jamaica was Beryl in early July 2024, resulting in at least four fatalities.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the current status of Hurricane Melissa? Hurricane Melissa has sustained winds of 120 km/h and is expected to intensify further, potentially becoming a major hurricane by Sunday.
- Which regions are at risk from Hurricane Melissa? Jamaica, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic are all facing potential threats from Hurricane Melissa, including heavy rainfall, strong winds, and the risk of sudden floods and landslides.
- What precautionary measures have been taken? Authorities in Haiti and Jamaica have advised residents to prepare for the storm by protecting their lives and property. Prime Minister Andrew Holness of Jamaica has urged residents in flood-prone areas to be ready for possible evacuations.
- What was the last major hurricane to affect Jamaica? The last significant hurricane to impact Jamaica was Hurricane Beryl in early July 2024, which resulted in at least four deaths.
