Tropical Storm Melissa Claims Life of Elderly Man in Haiti During Caribbean Rampage

Tropical Storm Melissa has become a significant concern as it moves through the Caribbean region, posing threats of severe flooding and landslides. The storm impacted southern Haiti, particularly the coastal town of Marigot, where an elderly man lost his life due to a fallen tree. Additionally, flooding in the Artibonite area resulted in injuries to five other individuals.

Storm Details and Movement

On Thursday, Tropical Storm Melissa was located approximately 345 kilometers southeast of Kingston, Jamaica, and about 440 kilometers southwest of Port-au-Prince, Haiti. It featured maximum sustained winds of 80 km/h and was advancing northwest at a pace of 7 km/h. Both Jamaica and southwestern Haiti, from the Dominican Republic border to Port-au-Prince, were placed under a hurricane watch.

Preparedness Measures

• A tropical storm warning was issued for Jamaica.
• Officials opened 881 shelters across Jamaica.
• Schools transitioned to remote classes, and courts were closed.
• Sandbags were deployed in Kingston to mitigate flooding risks.

Roberto Morgan, Jamaica’s Works Minister, emphasized the necessity of preparedness for what could be an exceptionally destructive storm. Local resident Barbara Campbell shared her worries while confirming that she had stocked up on essential supplies.

Rainfall and Impact Predictions

Significant rainfall is anticipated across the Caribbean. Jamaica’s eastern region could receive up to 30 centimeters of rain. Similar amounts are expected in southern Haiti and the southern Dominican Republic through Saturday, with additional heavy rainfall possible depending on Melissa’s trajectory.

Response in the Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic has taken precautions as the storm approaches. Many residents have already sought shelter, and schools, businesses, and various government services are closed across nine provinces. Over 500,000 customers are affected due to non-operational water supply systems.

Concerns for Haiti

The situation in Haiti raises alarm, particularly as the nation has historically suffered from storm damage due to significant erosion. Socioeconomic challenges, including gang violence and poverty, limit effective storm preparations.

Humanitarian Aid Efforts

To address the vulnerabilities present in Haiti, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has allocated $4 million USD for humanitarian assistance. This funding aims to support over 10,000 at-risk individuals with essentials such as emergency shelters, evacuation aid, and hygiene kits.

Hurricane Season Context

Tropical Storm Melissa marks the 13th named storm of the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30. The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration had forecasted an above-normal season, predicting 13 to 18 named storms with the potential for 5 to 9 hurricanes and up to 5 major hurricanes.

As Tropical Storm Melissa continues to traverse the Caribbean, residents must remain vigilant and adhere to safety recommendations while awaiting further developments.