This blog post explains the situation unfolding as Tropical Storm Melissa moves through the Caribbean. It focuses on impacts in Jamaica, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic, the meteorological forecast, and practical implications for residents and emergency planners.
Drawing on official reports and meteorological guidance, I summarize the current status, expected rainfall and wind threats. I also describe what preparations are being made as authorities respond to the risk of flooding and landslides.
Storm overview and immediate impacts
Tropical Storm Melissa swept through the Caribbean, bringing heavy rain, gusty winds, and the threat of severe flooding and landslides to Jamaica and southern Hispaniola. As of late Wednesday, the storm had sustained winds near 50 mph (85 kph) and was moving slowly westward at approximately 2 mph (4 kph).
This slow forward speed increases the risk of localized high rainfall totals.
Authorities across the region have already opened shelters and issued evacuation advisories for flood-prone and landslide-prone areas. The Dominican Republic placed nine provinces on alert, closing schools, businesses, and government offices.
Jamaica prepared 881 shelters and moved to remote learning for schools. More than half a million people experienced disruptions to water systems.
Forecast, intensification potential, and rainfall expectations
The U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC) warned that Melissa could intensify, predicting potential strengthening into a hurricane by Friday. The slow movement and warm Caribbean waters make intensification a realistic scenario.
Residents should monitor official updates closely.
Rainfall is the most immediate hazard. Meteorological forecasts from Jamaica’s Meteorological Service indicated that the island’s eastern areas could receive up to 12 inches (30 cm) of rain.
Similar amounts are expected across southern Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Localized totals could exceed these values depending on the storm’s exact track and interacting topography.
This increases the risk of flash flooding and landslides in mountainous regions. The combination of saturated soils, steep terrain in parts of Hispaniola, and sustained heavy rains creates a high landslide risk.
Slow-moving storms exacerbate these hazards because prolonged rainfall allows water to infiltrate slopes and river basins. This can undermine natural and built environments.
Regional responses and public safety measures
Governments and emergency services mobilized preemptive measures designed to reduce loss of life and property damage. Shelters were opened, court and school closures were enacted, and public messaging emphasized evacuation and seeking higher ground where necessary.
These actions reflect standard best practices for tropical cyclone preparedness. There is a need for continued readiness through the peak of the Atlantic season.
For clarity, here are the main impacts and preparedness steps being reported:
What residents and planners should do now
Residents in affected areas should prioritize safety: move to higher ground if advised. Secure loose outdoor items and follow official evacuation orders.
Keep emergency kits, charged communications devices, and potable water ready. For planners and infrastructure managers, prioritize monitoring water-supply systems.
Clear drainage channels where safe. Ensure shelters meet capacity and health standards.
Tropical Storm Melissa is a reminder that the Atlantic is active this season — Melissa is the 13th named storm and the first to originate in the Caribbean this year.
Forecasters expect this to be an above-normal hurricane season.
Here is the source article for this story: Tropical Storm Melissa lumbers through the Caribbean as islands take cover from rain