Tropical Storm Melissa is on a path to rapidly strengthen into one of the season’s most powerful hurricanes, posing an extreme danger to Jamaica, Cuba, and Haiti.
Forecasters are warning that the storm could reach Category 5 status as it barrels through the warm waters of the Caribbean, threatening catastrophic impacts to lives and property.
AccuWeather Lead Hurricane Expert Alex DaSilva warned that the storm’s path over “exceptionally warm waters” will act like “jet fuel,” fueling a rapid intensification this weekend. As wind shear diminishes, Melissa is expected to become a powerful, slow-moving hurricane, which will prolong the period of devastating conditions.
The major hazards include:
Life-Threatening Flooding: Forecasts call for widespread rainfall of 12-18 inches in Jamaica, Cuba, and Haiti. This level of rain will trigger flash flooding, deadly mudslides, and could wash out roads and bridges.
Destructive Winds: The AccuWeather Local StormMax™ wind gust forecast for Jamaica is 150 mph, equivalent to a Category 4 hurricane. Such winds are capable of causing widespread power outages and significant structural damage.
Dangerous Storm Surge: Coastal areas of Jamaica and eastern Cuba are likely to experience destructive storm surge.
Melissa is expected to slam Jamaica this weekend before tracking toward a likely landfall in eastern Cuba early next week as a major hurricane. Residents in the path are urged to complete preparations immediately.
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