PORT-AU-PRINCE/SAUTO DOMINGO: The Caribbean region is battling the fury of Tropical Storm Melissa, which has already claimed four lives and threatens to unleash catastrophic flooding across multiple islands, according to latest weather reports and emergency services.
Death Toll Rises as Storm Intensifies
Authorities have confirmed four storm-related fatalities - three in Haiti and one in neighbouring Dominican Republic. The victims include two women who tragically drowned when floodwaters swept through their homes in Haiti's Ouest department, while another woman perished in the Sud-Est region. Across the border in Dominican Republic, one man lost his life amid similar devastating circumstances.
Widespread Devastation Across Islands
The storm's impact has been severe and far-reaching:
- Multiple communities across Haiti and Dominican Republic submerged under floodwaters
- Emergency services conducting rescue operations for stranded residents
- Critical infrastructure including roads and bridges severely damaged
- Power outages reported across affected regions
- Agricultural lands devastated, raising food security concerns
Meteorological Warning: More Trouble Ahead
Weather experts have issued grave warnings as Melissa continues its destructive path. The US National Hurricane Center has highlighted the potential for "catastrophic flooding" across the Caribbean region, with heavy rainfall expected to continue through the weekend.
"This storm system is particularly dangerous due to its slow movement, which means prolonged rainfall over the same areas," explained a meteorologist from the regional weather monitoring service.
Emergency Response Mobilised
Government agencies and disaster management teams across the Caribbean have swung into action:
- Emergency shelters established in high-risk areas
- Search and rescue teams deployed across affected regions
- International aid organisations placed on standby
- Evacuation protocols activated for vulnerable communities
Local authorities are urging residents in low-lying areas to move to higher ground immediately and heed all evacuation orders as the storm situation continues to evolve.
