Bryan Norcross Warns Hurricane Melissa Threatens Catastrophic Caribbean Impacts

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This post explains the current situation with Tropical Storm Melissa as it strengthens in the Caribbean. It also covers what residents and emergency managers should expect.

Drawing on official forecasts and decades of experience tracking tropical systems, I summarize the storm’s projected impacts on Jamaica and Haiti. The likelihood of rapid intensification and practical preparedness steps to reduce risk from wind, rain, and storm surge are also discussed.

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What we know so far about Tropical Storm Melissa

Tropical Storm Melissa is intensifying in the Caribbean. It is forecast to make direct impacts on Jamaica and Haiti.

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Meteorologists are watching the system closely because of a combination of warm ocean temperatures and favorable upper‑level winds. These conditions can fuel rapid strengthening.

FOX Weather Hurricane Specialist Bryan Norcross has warned the storm could be “potentially deadly” given the simultaneous threats of high winds, heavy rainfall, and a fast-moving storm surge. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) forecasts Melissa could reach major hurricane status (Category 3 or greater) by the weekend if current trends continue.

Expected hazards and why they matter

Melissa presents three primary hazards that often compound one another in tropical cyclones:

  • Heavy rainfall: Prolonged intense rain across steep terrain will raise the risk of flash flooding and catastrophic landslides, particularly in vulnerable watersheds of Haiti and mountainous areas of Jamaica.
  • High winds: Sustained hurricane‑force winds and damaging gusts can down trees, snap utility poles, and cause widespread structural damage and power outages.
  • Storm surge: A rapid surge of ocean water is expected along vulnerable coasts, threatening low‑lying communities and critical infrastructure with flooding and coastal erosion.

    • Rapid intensification — what it means for forecasts

    Rapid intensification occurs when a tropical cyclone’s maximum sustained winds increase dramatically in a short period. Forecasters now indicate Melissa is likely to undergo that process over the next few days.

    This shortens lead time for communities to prepare and increases uncertainty in exact landfall intensity. Localized variations in intensity and track are common, so preparedness should assume a worst‑reasonable scenario.

    Practical preparedness advice

    Residents and responders in Jamaica, Haiti, and nearby islands should take immediate steps to reduce risk.

    Key actions include:

  • Monitor official sources: Keep tuned to the National Hurricane Center, local meteorological services, and emergency management for watches and warnings.
  • Prepare a kit: Water, nonperishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, a battery‑powered radio, and important documents in waterproof bags.
  • Plan for power loss: Charge devices and have backup power options.
  • Secure or store generators safely outdoors.
  • Heed evacuation orders: Move away from low‑lying coastal and flood‑prone areas if authorities advise evacuation.
  • Do not shelter in basements or ground floors vulnerable to floodwaters.
  • Avoid floodwaters: Never drive or walk through moving water.
  • Just 15 cm (6 in) of flowing water can knock an adult down, and 30 cm (12 in) can carry a small car away.

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    Here is the source article for this story: Bryan Norcross: Future Hurricane Melissa threatens catastrophic impacts in the Caribbean | Latest Weather Clips

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