Tropical Storm Melissa Threatens Caribbean, Potential U.S. Impact Looms

As of October 23rd, 2025, Tropical Storm Melissa is expected to pose a significant threat to the Caribbean over the coming days. According to the National Hurricane Center, Melissa is anticipated to produce heavy rainfall across parts of the Dominican Republic, Haiti, and Jamaica through the weekend, "bringing a risk of significant, life-threatening flash flooding and numerous landslides."

The system could reach major hurricane strength by late this weekend or early next week. The National Hurricane Center has warned that due to Melissa's slow motion, the risk of a prolonged period of strong winds, possibly lasting for a day or more, is increasing for Jamaica and the Tiburon peninsula of Haiti. Preparations to protect life and property should be rushed to completion, as strong winds could begin in these areas on Friday and continue increasing over the weekend.

While the U.S. East Coast and the Bahamas are expected to avoid direct impacts from Melissa, they should still stay alert for possible increases in onshore winds, coastal flooding, rough surf, and beach erosion next week. AccuWeather's lead hurricane expert, Alex DaSilva, stated that the risk of direct rain and wind impacts on the U.S. is low, but it cannot be ruled out. Melissa could still bring rough surf, coastal flooding, and beach erosion to parts of the U.S. East Coast starting next week.