Jamaica Braces for Powerful Storm Melissa's Arrival

Storm Melissa is on a path to become a strong hurricane, aiming straight for Jamaica. This storm is moving slowly, causing heavy rain and flooding in Haiti and the Dominican Republic all week. At least three people have died in Haiti, and one in the Dominican Republic, due to landslides and flooding. Melissa is expected to grow rapidly into a Category 4 hurricane by Sunday. This means it will bring very strong winds, heavy rain, and storm surges. Jamaica could see up to 25 inches of rain, with some areas getting even more. The storm might also hit eastern Cuba, the southern Bahamas, and Turks and Caicos. The slow movement of the storm is making things worse. It has already caused a lot of damage in Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Jamaica is preparing for the worst. Hospitals are getting ready, airports might close, and the prime minister is urging people to take action. This kind of rapid intensification is happening more often because of climate change. Three out of four Atlantic hurricanes this season have rapidly intensified. Melissa could be the strongest hurricane to ever hit Jamaica. Jamaica is not the only place at risk. Eastern Cuba could also see up to 8 inches of rain. Even the US East Coast might feel the effects, with rough surf and rip currents next week. The last time Jamaica was hit by a strong storm was in July 2024, when Hurricane Beryl passed by. This time, the forecast is even more alarming. Jamaica could be in for one of the most destructive hurricanes of the season.