The National Hurricane Center has named the system Tropical Storm Melissa, with maximum sustained winds now at 60 mph. The designation makes Melissa the thirteenth named storm of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season — designated AL132025 — and forecasters say the conditions ahead of her are highly favourable for continued intensification.
Melissa is tracking west-northwest at 14 mph. Sea surface temperatures along her projected path remain above 29°C, well above the threshold considered ideal for tropical development. Wind shear across the region is low. The NHC’s intensity forecast calls for gradual strengthening over the next 72 hours.
ODPEM has activated its Early Warning protocols, placing parish disaster preparedness committees on alert status. The Prime Minister’s Office convened a preliminary briefing with civil defence officials on Monday, with a follow-up session scheduled for Wednesday.
Jamaica is currently on a five-day extended outlook. Landfall in the Caribbean — not necessarily Jamaica — is possible within nine days if the current track holds without recurvature. The NHC track models continue to show a broad cone of uncertainty, but the westward path keeps Jamaica, Cuba, and the Cayman Islands within the envelope of risk.
Hardware stores across the island are already reporting an early uptick in purchases of plywood, roofing materials, fasteners, and emergency supplies. ODPEM is urging residents not to wait for a formal watch to begin preparations.
What to do this week:
- Reinforce any known weak points in your roof — loose sheeting, damaged ridge tiles, or unsecured fascia boards.
- Stock at least seven days of drinking water (one gallon per person per day).
- Charge all portable devices and power banks.
- Download the Jamaica Meteorological Service app and enable notifications.
- If you have pets or livestock, make contingency plans for their safety and evacuation now.
Melissa’s designation as a named storm is a significant development. ODPEM advises all Jamaican residents to treat this system seriously from the outset.
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