Hurricane Melissa, which has strengthened into a Category 5 storm, moves north in the Caribbean Sea toward Jamaica on Monday in this composite satellite image. (CIRA/NOAA/Handout via Reuters)
In its latest advisory, the National Hurricane Center warned that Melissa is expected to bring “life-threatening” conditions to Jamaica and parts of Cuba, Haiti, the Dominican Republic and the Bahamas.
These are the NHC’s “key messages” for each:
Jamaica: “Do not venture out of your safe shelter,” the NHC said. “Catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and numerous landslides are likely today through Tuesday. Catastrophic winds in the eyewall have the potential to cause total structural failure especially in higher elevation areas tonight and early Tuesday. This will result in extensive infrastructural damage, long-lasting power and communication outages, and isolated communities. Life-threatening storm surge and damaging waves are expected along the southern coast through Tuesday.”
Haiti and the Dominican Republic: “Catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and landslides are expected across southwestern Haiti and southern portions of the Dominican Republic through midweek,” the hurricane center said. “In Haiti, extensive infrastructural damage and isolation of communities is likely. Tropical storm conditions are expected late Tuesday and Wednesday.”
Eastern Cuba: “Heavy rainfall with life-threatening and potentially catastrophic flash flooding and landslides is expected beginning today,” the NHC said. “Life-threatening storm surge and damaging winds are expected late Tuesday and Tuesday night. Preparations should be rushed to completion.”
Southeast Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos: “Hurricane conditions, life-threatening storm surge, and heavy rainfall are possible on Wednesday,” forecasters said. “Residents should follow advice given by local officials and be sure to have preparations complete by Tuesday night.”