Hurricane Melissa, which had previously struck Cuba and Jamaica, has weakened to a Category 1 storm as it moves toward the Bahamas. The National Hurricane Center reports that the storm is expected to continue causing significant damage as it makes landfall. With sustained winds of up to 96 mph, the storm is anticipated to bring heavy rainfall and strong winds to the region.
Residents in the Bahamas are urged to prepare for the storm’s impact, with emergency shelters open and evacuation orders in place for vulnerable coastal areas. Authorities are monitoring the storm’s progress closely, with updates expected to be released throughout the day. The storm’s trajectory remains uncertain, and further changes in its intensity are possible.
While the immediate focus is on safety and preparedness, the storm’s potential for economic disruption in the region is a growing concern. Damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and tourism could have long-term implications for the local economy. International aid organizations are being mobilized to assist with relief efforts, though the extent of the damage remains to be seen.