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Powerful Hurricane Melissa Threatens Florida's Coastline
22 Oct
Summary
- Tropical Storm Melissa expected to intensify into a hurricane by October 23, 2025
- Potential for catastrophic winds, flooding, and heavy rain in Florida and the Caribbean
- Forecasters warn of a slow-moving, damaging hurricane system
According to the latest forecasts, Tropical Storm Melissa is expected to intensify into a hurricane on Thursday, October 23, 2025, and could have a significant impact on Florida. Meteorologists at the National Hurricane Center warn that Melissa has the potential to develop into an intense hurricane, with sustained winds of at least 111 mph.
The storm system first formed in the Caribbean Sea on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, and has since been strengthening. Over the next few days, Melissa is predicted to bring strong winds, flooding, and heavy rainfall to Haiti, Jamaica, and other Caribbean islands. Authorities in the region have already issued hurricane and tropical storm watches in preparation for the storm's arrival.
As Melissa continues to track westward, the likelihood of a damaging effect on the US has increased. Forecasters believe the storm could become a slow-moving hurricane, unleashing feet of rain and catastrophic winds. "The longer Melissa tracks to the west, the greater the chance of an impact on the US," stated Bernie Rayno, Chief Meteorologist at AccuWeather.
The major US cities that could potentially be under water by 2050 due to rising sea levels and powerful storms have been identified on a "horror map." Experts warn that Melissa could be the latest in a series of catastrophic weather events that threaten coastal communities.
