Tropical Storm Melissa: Status, Path, and Caribbean Preparedness
Tropical Storm Melissa: Current Status and Path
Tropical Storm Melissa has become the 13th named storm of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, currently meandering slowly over the central Caribbean Sea with sustained winds near 50 mph[1][2]. Satellite imagery shows the storm centered southwest of Hispaniola, moving west-northwest at a sluggish 2 mph, with its outer rainbands already bringing heavy rainfall to southern Dominican Republic, Haiti, and parts of Puerto Rico[1][3]. Forecasters expect little change in intensity over the next day, but warn that Melissa could strengthen into a major hurricane by late weekend, posing a significant threat to Jamaica, Haiti, Cuba, and the Dominican Republic if current trends continue[1].
Regional Impacts and Preparedness
Melissa’s slow movement increases the risk of prolonged strong winds and heavy rainfall, raising concerns for life-threatening flash flooding and landslides across affected islands[1]. Authorities urge residents in vulnerable areas to complete preparations without delay, as dangerous conditions may begin as early as late Thursday or Friday and persist through the weekend[1]. With uncertainty remaining in the storm’s eventual track, ongoing monitoring of official updates is essential for communities in the Caribbean region[3].
