Hurricane Melissa threatens Caribbean with deadly flooding, Jamaica brace

Hurricane Melissa, a rapidly intensifying storm with sustained winds reaching hurricane strength, is threatening Jamaica and parts of the Caribbean with catastrophic flooding, landslides, and storm surges. The U.S. National Hurricane Center has issued a hurricane warning for Jamaica, forecasting up to 25 inches of rain and the storm reaching Category 4 status soon, with slow movement raising concerns about prolonged damage. The government of Trinidad and Tobago is closely monitoring the situation, prioritizing the safety of its nationals, especially students in Jamaica, and providing support and travel options for those wishing to return home. Locals in Kingston are preparing for the storm's impact, fearing that Melissa's slow pace could cause more destruction than previous faster-moving storms like Hurricane Beryl last year. The storm's expected severe impact has raised concerns among the Jamaican diaspora in places like Palm Beach County, Florida, where businesses dependent on Jamaican produce fear significant agricultural and economic damage. Authorities and residents are urged to stay informed and take precautions as the storm progresses through the region.