Category 2 Hurricane Melissa Leaves Deadly Caribbean Trail Approaches Bermuda, Newfoundland

Hurricane Melissa, currently a Category 2 storm with winds of 105 mph, has left a deadly and destructive trail across the Caribbean, notably devastating Jamaica, Haiti, and Cuba with widespread damage and dozens of deaths. The storm is rapidly moving northeast towards Bermuda, expected to pass close to the island, bringing strong winds, heavy rain, and dangerous surf. Though Florida will be spared from direct wind and rain impacts, it faces hazardous rip currents and rough surf. Melissa is forecast to weaken as it moves into cooler North Atlantic waters near Newfoundland, where it may arrive as a post-tropical cyclone with strong winds and rain. The Canadian Hurricane Centre has adjusted the storm's track to include the Avalon Peninsula of Newfoundland within the potential impact zone, predicting category 1 force winds. Mariners in the North Atlantic should anticipate rough seas and hazardous conditions through the weekend as Melissa continues to weaken but remains powerful.