SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) — Tropical Storm Melissa was nearly stationary in the central Caribbean on Friday as forecasters warned it could strengthen and swipe Jamaica as a powerful hurricane, dumping staggering amounts of rain—up to 35 inches (89 centimeters)—on southwest Haiti, where catastrophic flooding and landslides are expected.
The erratic storm is poised to unleash heavy rain on Jamaica and the southern regions of Haiti and the Dominican Republic, resulting in fatalities already reported in both countries. At least three people were killed in Haiti, and one in the Dominican Republic.
U.S. National Hurricane Center's Jamie Rhome stated, “These heavy rains are just going to sit over one area for several days.”
As of Friday, the storm was about 215 miles (345 kilometers) southeast of Kingston and had maximum sustained winds of 65 mph (100 kph), moving at a mere 2 mph (4 kph).
A hurricane watch and a tropical storm warning were issued for Jamaica and Haiti’s southwest peninsula.
A forecast anticipates up to 25 inches (64 centimeters) of rain for parts of Jamaica, southern Haiti, and the Dominican Republic through Tuesday, while Haiti’s Tiburon Peninsula may see as much as 35 inches.
Canada's storm projections indicate the storm will hit eastern Cuba as a major hurricane by early Wednesday, potentially leading to disastrous conditions.
Catastrophic Warnings for Haiti
The National Hurricane Center cautioned that “heavy rainfall will result in catastrophic flash flooding and landslides across southwestern Haiti into early next week.”
The Civil Protection Agency noted that a landslide in Port-au-Prince had already claimed two lives, increasing the total fatalities to three due to the storm's immediate impacts.
The U.N. has prepared more than 100 emergency shelters in Haiti’s southern region as residents expressed grave concerns for their safety. Many families are fleeing their homes for higher ground.
Meanwhile, thousands residing in makeshift shelters due to gang violence are at increased risk. Comments from residents highlight the feeling of helplessness: “I’m dealing with two storms: the gangs and the weather,” reflected one individual.
Preparing for Impact in Jamaica
Jamaica is under threat from the slow-moving storm expected to bring life-threatening flooding and landslides. Residents are stocking up on essential supplies as the storm’s impact remains uncertain.
Schools and government offices have closed across Jamaica, and officials are prepared to issue evacuation orders as necessary, indicating the severity of the storm's potential consequences.
As the storm moves forward, vigilance and preparations continue across the Caribbean, with the slow, powerful storm posing significant risks to millions.
