The Dominican Republic is bracing for the intensified impact of Hurricane Melissa, with heavy rainfall expected to persist through the weekend, particularly along the southern coast, Barahona province, and surrounding regions. President Luis Abinader has declared the suspension of work in 12 provinces under red alert to mitigate risks to life and property. The decision follows a high-level meeting with Vice President Raquel Peña and emergency officials to coordinate preventive measures and ensure public safety. The Emergency Operations Center (COE), led by Director Juan Manuel Méndez, will reassess the situation on Saturday morning. President Abinader emphasized the prolonged nature of the storm, stating that it is one of the longest-lasting weather events to affect the country in recent history. He assured that all state institutions are mobilized to safeguard vulnerable areas and expedite the return to normalcy. Meteorologist Gloria Ceballos of the Dominican Institute of Meteorology (Indomet) warned that Melissa’s trajectory could shift westward, bringing its cloud cover closer to the southern coast. Authorities have issued advisories against crossing swollen rivers and streams, using bathing facilities, and urged residents to seek shelter if necessary. Emergency shelters have been established in San Juan, San Cristóbal, and the National District, accommodating 61 individuals. While most public and private sectors remain closed, essential services such as pharmacies, supermarkets, fuel stations, and transportation will continue operating to ensure access to vital supplies. A total of 26 provinces are under alert: 12 in red, 11 in yellow, and three in green, reflecting varying levels of anticipated damage.