Tropical Storm Melissa Brings Catastrophic Flooding Potential to the Northern Caribbean

Strategic Insights -

Tropical Storm Melissa, a fast-developing storm system, threatens to unleash massive rainfall and life-threatening flooding and landslides in the northern Caribbean. Forecasters warn of up to 35 inches of rain anticipated in southwest Haiti, while Jamaica and the southern regions of Haiti and the Dominican Republic are expected to receive up to 25 inches of rain through Monday. The storm has already claimed at least four lives and left thousands displaced, with catastrophic flooding potential posing a significant threat to the region.

Key Takeaways:

  • Tropical Storm Melissa is expected to rapidly intensify over the next 24 hours, becoming a hurricane shortly and a major hurricane by Sunday.
  • The storm has already caused significant damage in Haiti, resulting in the deaths of at least three people and leaving five injured due to a collapsed wall.
  • Up to 35 inches of rain is anticipated in southwest Haiti, while Jamaica and the southern regions of Haiti and the Dominican Republic are expected to receive up to 25 inches of rain through Monday.
  • A hurricane warning is in effect for Jamaica, while a hurricane watch remains in place for the southwestern peninsula of Haiti.
  • Authorities in Jamaica have activated over 650 shelters and warned that all airports could close within 24 hours if a hurricane warning is issued.
  • The Bahamas Department of Meteorology expects Melissa to bring tropical storm or hurricane conditions to islands in the Southeast and Central Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands by early next week.
  • The storm is forecast to hit eastern Cuba early Wednesday, where up to 12 inches of rain could fall in some areas.
  • Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness has urged citizens to take the weather threat seriously and take all measures to protect themselves.

Statistics:

  • Up to 35 inches (89 centimeters) of rain is anticipated in southwest Haiti.
  • Up to 25 inches (64 centimeters) of rain is forecast for Jamaica and the southern regions of Haiti and the Dominican Republic through Monday.
  • The storm has caused at least 3 deaths in Haiti and 1 death in the Dominican Republic.
  • Over 650 shelters have been activated in Jamaica.
  • Over half a million customers are affected by knocked-out water supply systems in Jamaica.
  • The storm has damaged nearly 200 homes in Jamaica and has downed trees and traffic lights, unleashed a couple of small landslides, and left over two dozen communities isolated by floodwaters.

Sources:

  • AP journalist Evens Sanon, "Tropical Storm Melissa forms in Caribbean, threatens Haiti and Jamaica," July 23, 2025.
  • U.S. National Hurricane Center, "Tropical Storm Melissa Public Advisory," July 22, 2025.
  • AP News, "Tropical Storm Melissa brings catastrophic flooding potential to the northern Caribbean," July 22, 2025.