Direct answer: Hurricane Melissa is currently moving north through the Caribbean toward Jamaica and then Cuba, with its forecast path bringing Jamaica into its core impact zone in the next 24–48 hours and Cuba to follow. The storm intensified rapidly after formation and has been tracking along a slow, northwestward course, increasing the threat of powerful winds, heavy rainfall, and dangerous flooding in Jamaica, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and later Cuba and the Bahamas as it progresses. Context and current status (as of latest updates):
- Location and movement: Melissa formed in the southern Caribbean and is moving north-northwest at a relatively slow pace, keeping cores near warm ocean waters that fuel intensification. Expect the center to approach Jamaica first, followed by Haiti and the Dominican Republic, then Cuba, with possible effects continuing across the region for several days [web results indicate current tracking and forecast updates from official agencies and major outlets].
- Intensity: Rapid intensification has been reported in several updates, with forecasts describing the potential to reach major hurricane strength (Category 3 or higher) at various forecast horizons, before possibly weakening as it interacts with land and cooler air in the outer ranges of its path. Local authorities have warned of catastrophic winds, storm surge, and extreme rainfall in affected regions [web results show multiple live updates and forecast discussions].
- Impacts by region:
- Jamaica: Expected to experience extreme winds, torrential rainfall, and potential catastrophic flooding and landslides. Widespread power and structural damage is possible, with major influence on emergency response and evacuation decisions.
- Hispaniola (Haiti and the Dominican Republic): Heavy rainfall and flooding, with landslides possible in mountainous areas; flash flooding is a major risk due to slow movement and persistent rain bands.
- Cuba: As the storm tracks toward Cuba, damaging winds and flooding can be expected, especially in coastal and near-coastal communities.
- Bahamas and beyond: If the system maintains strength, tropical storm or hurricane-force conditions could extend toward the Bahamas and possibly Bermuda, depending on the exact track and intensity over the coming days.
- Preparedness and guidance: Authorities across Jamaica, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and Cuba have issued warnings and advisories. Evacuations, sheltering plans, and early-action measures are being activated in some areas to mitigate loss of life and damage.
What to do now (general guidance):
- Monitor official forecasts from your national meteorological service and trusted international hurricane centers for the latest track, intensity, and advisories.
- Follow local evacuation orders and shelter-in-place guidance as issued by authorities. Have a emergency kit ready, including water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlight with extra batteries, and important documents.
- Prepare property for strong winds and flooding: trim loose vegetation, secure outdoor objects, reinforce doors and windows as advised, and move to higher ground if you are in a flood-prone area.
- Stay informed about road conditions and communication outages during and after the storm, and have a plan to reconnect with family if communications are disrupted.
If you share your specific location or region, a more precise, step-by-step preparedness plan and the latest official advisories for your area can be provided.
