Tropical storm Melissa. Photo from X page Tropical storm Melissa has been intensifying in recent days in the central Caribbean Sea and is expected to impact Jamaica, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic in the coming days.
According to an official update from the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC), the tropical storm is moving northwest at a speed of about 6 km/h, accompanied by winds reaching up to 110 km/h, with the potential to become a hurricane by the weekend.
Meteorologists warn that the region could experience heavy rains of up to 60 cm, likely to cause flash floods, rockslides, and storm surges that could reach heights of up to three meters. Severe coastal flooding is especially expected in the low-lying areas of southern Haiti and the southern coast of Jamaica.
The NHC continues to monitor the storm's path and provides regular updates on its official page and at @NHC_Atlantic.
“The track is still uncertain, but Jamaica, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic must prepare for either direct or indirect impact by a powerful system,” the center's statement read.
Citizens and tourists in the area are advised to avoid movement in mountainous areas and near streams, follow local authorities' instructions, and stay updated with the NHC's official warning maps at nhc.noaa.gov.