Tropical Storm Melissa to strengthen into major hurricane: Latest forecast

Tropical Storm Melissa is set to escalate into a major hurricane over the upcoming weekend, posing a significant threat of catastrophic flash flooding and landslides in regions of the Dominican Republic, Haiti, and Jamaica.

The latest forecast indicates that Melissa is on course to reach Category 4 hurricane status by Sunday, unleashing heavy rainfall and destructive winds across the Caribbean. Anticipated hurricane conditions are expected to impact southern Haiti on Saturday before moving on to Jamaica by Saturday night or Sunday morning.

This impending storm has the potential to be the most powerful hurricane to hit Jamaica in over three decades, with a prolonged period of major hurricane activity expected from Sunday through Tuesday as Melissa gains strength and moves sluggishly near or south of the island.

Tragically, Tropical Storm Melissa has already claimed a life in Haiti, as an elderly man was fatally struck by a fallen tree, as reported by The Associated Press.

As of Friday evening, Melissa was located approximately 215 miles southeast of Kingston, Jamaica, moving at a sluggish pace of only 2mph. This lethargic movement is projected to persist for several days, allowing for substantial intensification of the storm.

The current trajectory suggests that Melissa will advance to hurricane status on Saturday and escalate to a major hurricane by Sunday, with rapid strengthening expected through Monday, potentially reaching Category 4 intensity.

Further strengthening is likely early next week as Melissa gradually advances south of Jamaica by Tuesday. Confidence is mounting that Jamaica will endure a multi-day major hurricane event commencing on Saturday afternoon and extending through Tuesday, resulting in extensive wind damage and widespread power outages.

This looming weather event could mark the strongest hurricane impact on Jamaica since Hurricane Gilbert, a Category 4 storm that battered the island in 1988. Forecasts predict rainfall totals of 15-25 inches in parts of southwestern Haiti and eastern Jamaica through Monday, with localized higher amounts possible.

Additionally, 6 to 12 inches of rainfall is anticipated across other areas of Haiti and the southern Dominican Republic, posing a significant risk of life-threatening flash floods and numerous landslides over the weekend and into early next week.

As Tropical Storm Melissa evolves into a major hurricane, residents in the affected regions are urged to heed evacuation orders, prepare emergency supplies, and stay updated on weather advisories to ensure their safety and well-being during this impending natural disaster.