KINGSTON, Jamaica — In response to the looming threat of Tropical Storm Melissa, the Jamaican government has announced the early closure of all non-essential government offices at 2:00 pm on Friday. The decision, communicated by the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) in a Friday media release, aims to ensure public safety as the storm approaches the island. Essential services, however, will continue to operate without interruption, remaining accessible to the public. According to the OPM, the Meteorological Service of Jamaica reported that Tropical Storm Melissa remained stationary overnight, but a tropical storm warning remains in effect. The government has pledged to provide ongoing updates throughout the day. Authorities are urging citizens to stay informed through official channels and to take necessary precautions to safeguard their well-being.