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Tropical Storm Melissa Threatens Haiti, Jamaica with Heavy Rain

10/25/2025

29 7 Full Breakdown

Center

Melissa Threatens Haiti

Tropical Storm Melissa moves west across the central Caribbean, prompting a Hurricane Watch for Haiti and a Tropical Storm Watch for Jamaica.
As of Oct. 23, Melissa's winds are 50 mph and could reach hurricane status by Saturday.
Rainfall could total 8–12 inches along Haiti's south coast, increasing flood and mudslide risk.
Forecast models show a potential northward turn, and Haiti remains vulnerable due to poverty and deforestation.

Left

New Zealand Storm Emergency

New Zealand's MetService issued rare red warnings as winds hit 155 km/h.
The storm caused over 100 flight cancellations and power outages affecting nearly 90,000 homes, with schools closed.
The government declared a state of emergency in Canterbury due to life-threatening conditions.
A man died earlier in the week from a falling tree branch.
The extreme weather disrupted planned rallies for an industrial strike involving over 100,000 workers.

History

Historical Context

Tropical Storm Gordon formed on November 8, 1994, causing catastrophic flooding in Haiti, resulting in over 1,122 deaths and $50 million in damages. The storm's impact highlighted the vulnerabilities of impoverished regions, exacerbated by deforestation. Today, Tropical Storm Melissa threatens similar devastation in Haiti, underscoring the urgent need for improved disaster preparedness and sustainable practices in vulnerable areas.

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Melissa Threatens Haiti

Tropical Storm Melissa moves west across the central Caribbean, prompting a Hurricane Watch for Haiti and a Tropical Storm Watch for Jamaica.
As of Oct. 23, Melissa's winds are 50 mph and could reach hurricane status by Saturday.
Rainfall could total 8–12 inches along Haiti's south coast, increasing flood and mudslide risk.
Forecast models show a potential northward turn, and Haiti remains vulnerable due to poverty and deforestation.

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