Tropical Storm Melissa: 3 Dead in Haiti Landslide

Tropical Storm Melissa has unleashed its fury on the Caribbean, with a devastating landslide near Port-au-Prince, Haiti, claiming three lives. The storm, which continues to dump torrential rain across the region, has put emergency services on high alert and left communities bracing for more severe weather .

What Happened in Haiti?

According to Haiti’s Civil Protection Agency, a massive landslide triggered by relentless rainfall from Tropical Storm Melissa struck a residential area near the capital, Port-au-Prince. The initial reports confirmed two fatalities, with a third person succumbing to their injuries shortly after, bringing the death toll to three .

Forecasters have issued stark warnings that the situation could worsen. The storm is expected to cause “catastrophic” flash flooding and additional landslides, particularly in the southern regions of Haiti, which are already highly vulnerable due to deforestation and poor infrastructure .

Storm’s Path and Regional Impact

Tropical Storm Melissa is not just a threat to Haiti. The storm system is forecast to bring sustained heavy rainfall, strong winds, and dangerous storm surges from October 24th through the 26th across a wide swath of the Caribbean, including the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Puerto Rico .

Coastal and low-lying areas are at the highest risk for flooding and power outages. Authorities in all affected nations are urging residents to evacuate from high-risk zones and to prepare emergency kits .

Emergency Response and Aid

International aid organizations are mobilizing in response to the unfolding crisis. Mercy Corps has announced it is closely monitoring the situation and preparing to respond to the immediate needs of affected communities, which may include clean water, shelter, and medical supplies .

The Haitian government, already grappling with significant political and economic instability, faces a monumental challenge in coordinating a large-scale disaster response.

Looking Ahead: A Dangerous Forecast

Meteorologists warn that Tropical Storm Melissa could quickly intensify as it moves across the warm Caribbean waters. This potential for rapid intensification adds another layer of danger for a region that is all too familiar with the destructive power of tropical cyclones.

Residents are advised to stay tuned to local news and official weather service updates for the latest information and safety instructions.