Tropical Storm Melissa Soaks the Caribbean, Raising Fears of Flooding and Landslides. Associated Press
Tropical Storm Melissa unleashed torrential rains across parts of the Caribbean on Tuesday, threatening severe flooding and landslides in Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica. The storm, which began drenching the island of Hispaniola, is expected to intensify as it moves westward later this week.
Widespread Disruption in the Dominican Republic
Heavy downpours hit Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic’s capital, turning streets into rivers and bringing traffic to a standstill. Strong gusts knocked down at least one traffic light, while outdoor events, including professional baseball games, were canceled. Authorities urged residents to stay indoors as conditions worsened.
Rising Concerns in Flood-Prone Haiti
In Haiti, memories of past storms have stirred anxiety. The country’s fragile infrastructure and widespread soil erosion make it highly vulnerable to flooding. Officials issued warnings to residents in southern regions, where Melissa poses the greatest threat. Many communities, still recovering from previous disasters, have begun taking precautions as the storm inches closer.
Storm’s Path and Strength
According to the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC) in Miami, Tropical Storm Melissa was located approximately 325 miles (520 kilometers) south-southwest of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, as of Tuesday night. The storm carried maximum sustained winds of 50 mph (80 kph) and was moving west at 13 mph (20 kph).
A hurricane watch was issued for southern Haiti, while tropical storm watches were in effect for Jamaica. Meteorologists noted that Melissa could gradually strengthen in the coming days, though its exact track remains uncertain. Residents across the region were urged to monitor updates and prepare for worsening conditions.
Heavy Rainfall Expected Across the Region
Forecasters warned that southern Haiti and the southern Dominican Republic could receive between 5 to 10 inches (12–25 centimeters) of rain through Friday. Jamaica was also expected to see several inches of rainfall, with the potential for flash floods in low-lying areas.
Northern Hispaniola, Aruba, and Puerto Rico were also on alert, with heavy rain forecast to reach these areas later in the week. Authorities emphasized that saturated soils could lead to dangerous landslides and rapid river flooding, especially in mountainous regions.
Flash Flood and Landslide Risks
Meteorologists cautioned that the heaviest rainfall could persist beyond Friday, posing an ongoing threat to communities already drenched by earlier storms. The NHC warned of a “significant risk” of flash flooding and landslides, particularly in Haiti’s southern departments and the Dominican Republic’s southern provinces.
Local disaster management agencies have started mobilizing emergency teams and resources. Shelters have been prepared, and residents in flood-prone zones have been urged to evacuate early if conditions worsen.
Officials Urge Preparedness and Caution
With the storm’s path still unpredictable, officials across the Caribbean stressed the importance of vigilance. Even if Melissa does not strengthen into a hurricane, the combination of strong winds, torrential rain, and unstable terrain could lead to serious damage.
“We are preparing for the worst while hoping for the best,” said one emergency official in Port-au-Prince. “People must not underestimate the risk. Floodwaters can rise quickly and catch anyone off guard.”
A Developing Situation
As Tropical Storm Melissa continues its journey westward, weather experts are keeping a close eye on its potential to intensify. The National Hurricane Center advised that while gradual strengthening is likely, uncertainties in the storm’s track make it critical for Caribbean residents to stay informed.
For now, the Caribbean braces for days of relentless rain, strong winds, and the possibility of flash floods and landslides — a familiar yet perilous reminder of nature’s force during storm season.
