Hurricane Melissa Threatens Jamaica as Rain Lingers in Carolinas

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) – A powerful Category 5 hurricane is impacting weather conditions in the Caribbean while heavy rain continues to affect the Carolinas. Hurricane Melissa, with winds reaching 175 mph, is expected to cross Jamaica on Tuesday, bringing destructive conditions.

Rain in the Carolinas started on Monday and is forecasted to persist through much of the week. Tuesday will see rain tapering to lighter showers by afternoon, with temperatures barely reaching the lower 50s in Charlotte. Overnight lows will drop to the middle 40s.

On Wednesday, conditions are expected to worsen, with steady rain likely by evening. The rain may become heavy overnight, continuing into Thursday morning before clearing. Wednesday’s high temperatures will only reach the mid-50s.

While the Carolinas face rainy weather, Hurricane Melissa will move northeast from Jamaica, impacting Cuba and the Bahamas before heading out to sea. It is expected to bring severe weather, including heavy rains and winds, to those areas as well.

As the storm system dissipates, Charlotte should see clearer skies by Thursday afternoon, with temperatures returning to around 60 degrees. The anticipated weather for Halloween on Friday looks dry, despite evening temperatures dropping into the 40s.

Residents are advised to stay alert to any weather updates and to prepare for the chilly conditions expected over the Halloween weekend.