Tropical Storm Melissa Threatens Catastrophic Flooding Across Caribbean

Strategic Insights -

Tropical Storm Melissa is poised to wreak havoc on the northern Caribbean, with forecasters warning of catastrophic flooding, landslides, and life-threatening flash floods. The storm, which has already killed four people, is expected to strengthen into a major hurricane, bringing with it heavy rainfall and powerful winds. Jamaica and Haiti are particularly at risk, with authorities readying emergency shelters and warning residents to take necessary precautions.

Key Takeaways:

  • Tropical Storm Melissa is expected to become a major hurricane by Saturday or Sunday, with landfall forecast for central Jamaica on Tuesday.
  • The storm could dump up to 89 centimeters (35 inches) of rain across Haiti, with the Tiburon Peninsula potentially seeing 89 centimeters (35 inches).
  • Jamaica could endure hurricane conditions for more than 72 hours, with residents facing a "double effect" as the hurricane's eye passes over the island.
  • A total of four people have been killed in the storm, with three deaths reported in Haiti and one in the Dominican Republic.
  • The Dominican Republic has reported nearly 200 damaged homes and over half a million people left without water, with more than two dozen communities cut off by floodwaters.
  • Authorities have readied 650 emergency shelters across Jamaica and warned airports will close once a hurricane warning is declared.
  • The situation is dire for thousands displaced by gang violence in Port-au-Prince, living in makeshift shelters with scant protection.

Statistics:

  • Tropical Storm Melissa is moving at a pace of 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) per hour.
  • Rainfall totals forecast for Jamaica and southern Haiti could reach up to 64 centimeters (25 inches) through Tuesday.
  • The United States National Hurricane Center has warned of potential rainfall totals of 89 centimeters (35 inches) across Haiti.
  • Nearly 200 homes have been damaged in the Dominican Republic.
  • Over half a million people in the Dominican Republic are without access to clean water.
  • 650 emergency shelters have been readied across Jamaica.

Sources:

  • The Gleaner
  • Listin Diario daily newspaper
  • The Associated Press news agency
  • The New Nation
  • United States National Hurricane Center