#EyeOnMelissa: Tropical Storm Melissa forecast to strike Jamaica as major hurricane early next week

Tropical Storm Melissa is forecasted to escalate into a major hurricane and make landfall in Jamaica early next week, according to the latest updates from the Meteorological Service of Jamaica. The storm is currently positioned approximately 360 kilometers southwest of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, and 254 kilometers southeast of Morant Point, Jamaica. As it advances, Melissa is expected to traverse central Jamaica from south to north, potentially reaching Category 4 or 5 intensity upon impact. Principal Director Evan Thompson emphasized the severity of the impending storm, warning of catastrophic consequences including structural damage and widespread flooding. The island is bracing for torrential rainfall, with estimates of 300 to 400 millimeters expected to drench eastern parishes initially, spreading westward over the coming days. Residents are advised to prepare for strong, gusty winds and potential hurricane-force conditions by Sunday.