Powerful Hurricane Melissa Threatens US East Coast with Dangerous Surf and Flooding

As of October 25th, 2025, meteorologists are closely monitoring the development of Hurricane Melissa in the Atlantic Ocean. The storm, which has already caused significant damage in Haiti, is expected to strengthen further and pose a threat to the US East Coast in the coming days.

According to the National Hurricane Center, Melissa was "nearly stationary" southeast of Jamaica as of Friday, October 25th. However, the agency has warned that the storm's eventual northeast turn could bring dangerous surf, strong rip currents, and other coastal hazards to the US East Coast. AccuWeather meteorologists have echoed these concerns, stating that the timing and strength of a dip in the jet stream over the eastern US next week will help determine Melissa's path and impact.

Forecasters are particularly concerned about the potential for Melissa to make landfall as a major hurricane in both Jamaica and Cuba early next week. Lead hurricane expert Alex DaSilva warned that the storm could unleash "catastrophic" flash flooding and landslides across the region, with some areas potentially experiencing hurricane conditions for up to 72 hours.

Looking ahead, the meteorologists have also warned of the possibility of a strong nor'easter forming along the Atlantic coast due to Melissa's influence. Even a weaker coastal system interacting with the hurricane offshore could produce stronger winds and rougher seas along the US East Coast.

As the impending storm continues to brew, DaSilva emphasized that people in the path of Melissa need to prepare for the risk of catastrophic impacts. With the storm's potential to rapidly intensify and the threat of additional weather systems, the coming days and weeks could prove challenging for coastal communities along the eastern United States.