Tropical Storm Melissa Expected to Intensify into Strongest of Season; Jamaica, Cuba & Haiti in Path

Tropical Storm Melissa is expected to rapidly intensify this weekend and potentially become a Category 5 hurricane threatening Jamaica, Cuba and Haiti.

As of Friday morning (October 24), Melissa was nearly stationary, located about 300 kms southeast of Kingston, Jamaica. It had maximum sustained winds of 45 mph (75 kph) and was moving east-southeast at 1 mph (2 kph), according to the National Hurricane Centre.

The storm is expected to gain momentum from the warm waters and become a hurricane by Saturday (October 25) and a major hurricane by the end of the weekend, possibly reaching Category 5 status by Tuesday.

AccuWeather says Melissa could potentially unleash rain in amounts that will trigger life-threatening flooding and mudslides, high winds and extreme storm surge on the coastal areas of Jamaica and Cuba.

“The exceptionally warm waters, reaching hundreds of feet deep, will act like jet fuel — providing extra energy for Melissa,” AccuWeather Lead Hurricane Expert Alex DaSilva said.

As advisors scramble to assist clients in destination or about to depart for Jamaica, Hyatt Inclusive Collection, which has 8 properties in Jamaica, issued a notice to advisors who may be affected.

“The safety and wellbeing of our guests and colleagues is always a top priority, the email read. “Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection understands that severe weather events may cause our guests to consider changing their travel plans. The resort’s inclement weather policy for in-house or arriving guests is now in effect and applies to guests arriving into the Sangster International Airport (MBJ).”

Hyatt guests in destination and unable to leave due to airport closures will be offered a special rate. Guests who are unable to arrive due to the storm will be offered a couple of different booking options. Advisors are asked to reach out to the Director of Sales for the property with any questions.