Tropical Storm Melissa Brews in Caribbean as Hurricane Season Looms

As of Tuesday morning, Tropical Storm Melissa was brewing in the Caribbean Sea, the 13th named storm to form in the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season. The National Hurricane Center has been closely monitoring the storm's development.

Earlier this year, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicted an above-average hurricane season, with 13 to 19 named storms expected. In August, NOAA revised its forecast, now anticipating up to 18 named storms, with as many as 9 potentially becoming hurricanes.

Experts warn that climate change is a key factor behind the increasing intensity and rapid intensification of these powerful storms. Last year, two Category 5 hurricanes, Beryl and Milton, caused over $113 billion in damages and more than 250 deaths across the United States. Researchers have also found that storms have been slowing down, staying over affected areas for longer periods, leading to more rainfall and flooding.