Tropical Storm Melissa takes aim on Caribbean: Latest forecast

Tropical Storm Melissa is currently heading towards the Caribbean and has the potential to intensify into a hurricane within the next 24 to 48 hours. The storm is not expected to impact the mainland United States but poses a significant threat to countries in the Caribbean such as Haiti, the Dominican Republic, Cuba, and Jamaica. These areas could experience heavy rainfall and strong winds, leading to dangerous landslides and potentially life-threatening conditions.

Melissa is currently moving over waters that are 4 to 5 degrees warmer than usual for this time of year, which could fuel its transformation into a hurricane. The storm is forecasted to approach Jamaica and the southwestern part of Haiti in the coming days.

The latest predictions indicate that the southern Dominican Republic, southern Haiti, and eastern Jamaica could receive between 5 to 10 inches of rain by Saturday. This heavy rainfall may result in flash flooding and landslides in these regions. Northern parts of the Dominican Republic, northern Haiti, and western Jamaica are expected to receive 2 to 4 inches of rain during the same time frame.

Aruba and Puerto Rico may experience less severe impacts from Melissa, with one to 3 inches of rain forecasted along with the possibility of flooding. A hurricane watch has been issued for the southwestern peninsula of Haiti, from the border with the Dominican Republic to Port-Au-Prince, while a tropical storm watch is in effect for Jamaica.

It is important to note that the Atlantic hurricane season continues until November 30th. Stay informed about the latest updates and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety during this period of increased tropical activity.