by Manal Barakat, SeaNewsEditor

On 21 October, tropical Storm Melissa formed over the southern Caribbean Sea. According to the latest news reports, the storm is currently advancing through the Caribbean Sea, with expected impact in Jamaica, southern Hispaniola, and the Dominican Republic.

Authorities in these areas have issued warnings due to potential landslides and severe flooding for the next few weeks.

In the Dominican Republic, local authorities have ordered the closure of schools, businesses, and government offices across nine provinces currently under alert.

Forecasts indicate that heavy rainfall is expected in southern Haiti and the southern Dominican Republic through Saturday.

Western Jamaica, southern Hispaniola, Aruba, and Puerto Rico are also forecast to experience significant precipitation.

Ports in the affected regions, including Port-au-Prince in Haiti, and Kingston in Jamaica, are likely to restrict operations due to the bad weather.

For the latest port and vessel statuses or situation updates, please refer to the seaexplorer alert map.