Hurricane Melissa Strengthens Threatening Catastrophic Flooding Jamaica Haiti

Hurricane Melissa has rapidly intensified into a major hurricane in the Caribbean, posing a severe threat to Jamaica, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic with life-threatening flash flooding, landslides, and extensive wind damage. Forecasters predict Melissa could reach Category 4 or even Category 5 strength by the weekend near Jamaica due to favorable conditions including low wind shear and warm sea temperatures. The storm's slow movement near Jamaica and southwestern Haiti is expected to cause prolonged heavy rainfall totaling 10 to 20 inches, increasing the risk of catastrophic flooding and landslides, as well as power outages. Hurricane warnings are in effect for Jamaica, with hurricane watches issued for Haiti's southwestern peninsula, and officials urge residents and tourists to follow local emergency guidance. Even if the storm's center remains offshore, dangerous rains and landslides will continue to impact mountainous regions in the northern Caribbean. Visual reports highlight extensive flooding in Santo Domingo and preparations underway in Kingston, emphasizing the storm's broad and destructive impact across the region.