The Bahamas Department of Meteorology (BDM) is closely tracking Tropical Storm Melissa, which is currently situated in the north-central Caribbean. The storm, which has the potential to intensify into a major hurricane by this weekend, poses a significant threat to parts of The Bahamas and surrounding regions. As of the latest update, Melissa remains nearly stationary, located approximately 360 miles south of Matthew Town, 440 miles southwest of Providenciales, and 675 miles south-southeast of New Providence. The storm currently boasts maximum sustained winds of 45 mph, with higher gusts, and is expected to strengthen gradually. Forecasters predict that Melissa could escalate to a Category 3 hurricane by Saturday. The storm is anticipated to drift northeastward today before shifting westward from Saturday through Monday. If the projected path remains consistent, the southwestern islands of the Southeast Bahamas, including the Turks and Caicos, could experience tropical storm or hurricane conditions as early as Tuesday. The rest of the Southeast and Central Bahamas are likely to face impacts from Wednesday into Thursday. Meteorologists have cautioned that interactions with the high terrain of Jamaica, Cuba, or Hispaniola could influence Melissa’s intensity before it approaches the archipelago. Despite these variables, residents in the affected areas are advised to prepare for prolonged heavy rainfall, strong winds, and coastal flooding starting Tuesday. The BDM has urged both residents and visitors to stay informed through official updates available at met.gov.bs.