The slow moving storm, which has already claimed at least four lives in Haiti and the Dominican Republic, continues to unleash heavy rain and tropical storm strength winds across Jamaica’s eastern parishes. Meteorologists warn that Melissa’s slow pace could result in prolonged rainfall and widespread landslides, particularly in mountainous regions.

Prime Minister Andrew Holness urged residents to prioritize safety and follow evacuation orders immediately.

“We must take this storm seriously,” Holness said in a televised address. “Every life is precious, and every precaution counts. Please move to safe shelters and stay tuned to official updates.”

The Jamaica Defence Force and emergency agencies have been deployed to assist with evacuations and relief operations, while airports and seaports have suspended operations until conditions improve.

The National Hurricane Center has issued warnings for hurricane force winds, storm surges, and flash flooding expected to intensify through the night as Melissa moves west northwest at less than 10 mph.

The storm’s explosive growth is stunning: Erin strengthened from a 75 mph tropical storm Friday morning to a powerful Category 5 system within just 24 hours  an increase of 85 mph, meeting the criteria for rapid intensification.

Erin is currently located about 105 miles north of Anguilla, churning up dangerous seas and pushing rain and gusty winds over nearby islands including the Leeward Islands, the Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico, though it is not expected to make direct landfall in the region.

Rough Weather Conditions Expected to Continue

Forecasters warn that rough surf, coastal flooding, and tropical storm-force winds will affect southern portions of Erin’s path through the weekend. While the core of the storm stays offshore, tropical storm alerts remain in effect for several northeastern Caribbean islands.

“This is a life threatening situation for marine interests and island nations in Erin’s vicinity,” the NHC said in its latest advisory.

The storm is being supercharged by warmer-than-normal Atlantic waters, and further strengthening is possible Saturday afternoon. However, fluctuations in intensity are likely through the weekend.

Erin May Grow in Size Next Week

While exact long-term impacts remain uncertain, forecasters note Erin is expected to double or triple in size by midweek, potentially expanding hazardous conditions across the western Atlantic, including the U.S. East Coast. The NHC is closely monitoring the storm’s track for any future changes in direction that could threaten mainland landfall.

Residents along the southeastern U.S. coast are urged to stay alert and monitor official forecasts as Erin’s path develops.