Hurricane Melissa has intensified into a Category 4 storm as it moves northwest through the Caribbean Sea, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC). A Hurricane Warning is currently in effect for Jamaica, indicating that hurricane conditions are expected. Additionally, a Hurricane Watch has been issued for the southwestern peninsula of Haiti and southeastern Cuba, suggesting that hurricane conditions are possible in those areas.

As of Sunday, satellite images show that Melissa's maximum sustained winds have increased to nearly 140 mph (220 km/h), with even higher gusts. The NHC anticipates continued rapid intensification through the night, followed by potential fluctuations in strength.

The storm is projected to make landfall in Jamaica late Monday night or early Tuesday morning, and it is expected to remain a major hurricane during this time. Southeastern Cuba is also in the path of the storm, with landfall expected late Tuesday. There is a possibility that Melissa could reach Category 5 status, with sustained winds of up to 160 mph before making landfall. If this occurs, it would be the strongest hurricane to hit Jamaica in over 35 years, since Hurricane Gilbert in 1988.

The NHC forecasts that Melissa will bring significant rainfall to the region, with southern Hispaniola and Jamaica expected to receive between 15 and 30 inches of rain through Wednesday. Some areas could see as much as 40 inches. The advisory warns of "catastrophic flash flooding and landslides" in parts of southern Hispaniola and Jamaica. Eastern Cuba is also at risk, with anticipated rainfall of 6 to 18 inches, which could lead to dangerous flash flooding and landslides.

In addition to heavy rain, the NHC has issued warnings about dangerous storm surges, surf, and rip currents. The southern coast of Jamaica is expected to experience "life-threatening storm surge" from late Monday through Tuesday morning, with surge heights projected to reach between 9 and 13 feet above ground level. Residents in affected areas are urged to prepare for severe weather conditions as Hurricane Melissa approaches.