KINGSTON, Jamaica — Tropical Storm Melissa, currently stationary over the Caribbean Sea, continues to pose a significant threat to Jamaica, with tropical storm warnings and hurricane watches remaining in effect. The Meteorological Service of Jamaica (Met Service) reported that as of 4:00 am, the storm’s center was positioned at latitude 16.0 degrees north and longitude 75.5 degrees west, approximately 445 kilometers southwest of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, and 224 kilometers south-southeast of Morant Point, Jamaica. A slow northeastward drift is anticipated later Friday, with a westward shift expected by Saturday, bringing the storm dangerously close to Jamaica by early next week. Maximum sustained winds are currently near 75 km/h (45 mph), with higher gusts, and further intensification is forecast, potentially elevating Melissa to hurricane status by Saturday and a major hurricane (category three or higher) by Sunday. Tropical storm-force winds extend up to 220 kilometers (140 miles) east of the center. The Met Service warns of significant rainfall, with eastern parishes expected to receive 200-350 millimeters (8-14 inches) through the weekend, leading to widespread flooding and landslides. This heavy rainfall is predicted to spread westward across the country next week. Jamaicans are advised to prepare for strong, gusty winds initially affecting eastern parishes later today and continuing island-wide into the weekend. Hurricane-force winds may occur as early as Saturday. Marine conditions are also expected to deteriorate rapidly on Friday, prompting small craft operators and fishers to remain in safe harbor until conditions improve.
#EyeOnMelissa: Tropical storm warning and hurricane watch remain as Melissa stands still
