Haiti and the Dominican Republic, October 21, 2025
News Summary
Tropical Storm Melissa, the 13th named storm of the 2025 season, has formed in the Caribbean. With maximum winds of 50 mph, it poses a threat to Haiti and the Dominican Republic, where a Hurricane Watch is in effect. Rainfall totals of 5 to 10 inches are expected, raising concerns about flash flooding and mudslides. Meanwhile, Atlanta is experiencing cooler weather, with the chance of rain returning this weekend.
North Georgia Weather Update: Tropical Storm Melissa Forms in the Caribbean, Expected to Affect Haiti and the Dominican Republic
A weak cold front is forecasted to move into North Georgia later today, bringing a few scattered showers, primarily affecting northwest Georgia. However, the spotlight is on Tropical Storm Melissa, which has been identified as the 13th named storm of the 2025 season and is currently located south of Haiti and the Dominican Republic.
Tropical Storm Melissa is expected to develop further today in the Caribbean, with its current maximum winds reaching 50 mph. The storm’s winds extend up to 140 miles from its center, posing a potential threat to surrounding areas. A Hurricane Watch is in effect for Haiti, covering regions from the border with the Dominican Republic to Port-Au-Prince, and a Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for Jamaica.
Forecast models indicate that Melissa will likely make a northward turn, although the timing remains uncertain. Should the storm shift quickly, it may be pushed out into the Atlantic. Conversely, a slower track could lead to significant rain and wind impacts in the Bahamas. The primary concern is that as upper-level winds decrease, Melissa may stall over the region for several days, causing heavy rainfall.
Rainfall totals between 5 to 10 inches are expected in Haiti and the Dominican Republic, raising worries about flash flooding and mudslides. Areas of Jamaica and Puerto Rico might receive 1 to 3 inches of rain, potentially increasing urban flooding risks. Additionally, eastern Cuba is anticipated to experience several inches of rain due to Melissa.
In terms of local weather conditions, Atlanta is experiencing cool and clear skies, with temperatures near 50°F at Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport and in the 40s across much of North and Middle Georgia. The forecast for Atlanta includes mostly sunny skies with highs in the mid-70s, and breezy conditions tonight bringing lows in the mid-to-upper 40s. However, rain chances are anticipated to return by late Sunday into Monday, indicating the approach of the next significant weather system.
In conjunction with Tropical Storm Melissa, another storm system, Tropical Storm Imelda, is approaching the Bahamas and eastern Cuba, prompting tropical storm warnings in these regions. Imelda is forecasted to affect Cuba and the Bahamas, resulting in possible flash floods and urban flooding up to Tuesday, although it will not have a direct impact on northern and central Georgia.
Meanwhile, Georgia’s northern and central regions may experience isolated showers and thunderstorms early next week, while dangerous surf conditions are predicted along the coast due to swells from Imelda. A high surf advisory is currently in effect for parts of coastal Georgia, with dangerous waves of 5-6 feet expected, leading the National Weather Service to caution beachgoers against potential rip currents and hazardous surf conditions throughout the week.
In summary, Tropical Storm Melissa is forming in the Caribbean with significant implications for Haiti and the Dominican Republic, while weather enthusiasts should remain vigilant as further developments and advisories may follow with both Melissa and Imelda.
FAQ Section
What is Tropical Storm Melissa?
Tropical Storm Melissa is the 13th named storm of the 2025 season located south of Haiti and the Dominican Republic.
What are the current wind speeds of Tropical Storm Melissa?
Melissa has maximum winds reaching 50 mph.
What areas are affected by Hurricane or Tropical Storm Watches due to Tropical Storm Melissa?
A Hurricane Watch is in effect for Haiti, covering areas from the border with the Dominican Republic to Port-Au-Prince, and a Tropical Storm Watch is in place for Jamaica.
What are the expected rainfall totals from Tropical Storm Melissa?
Haiti and the Dominican Republic may see rainfall totals of 5 to 10 inches, while Jamaica and Puerto Rico are expected to receive 1 to 3 inches of rain.
What is the forecast for Atlanta today?
Atlanta will have cool and clear conditions, with temperatures near 50°F, highs in the mid-70s, and lows in the mid-to-upper 40s tonight.
Will Tropical Storm Imelda affect parts of Georgia?
Although Imelda will not directly impact northern and central Georgia, its swells and high surf conditions are expected to affect the Georgia coast.
Is there anything to be cautious about regarding beach activities in Georgia?
Yes, a high surf advisory is in effect, with dangerous waves of 5-6 feet expected, so beachgoers should be cautious of rip currents and hazardous surf conditions.
Key Features of Tropical Storm Melissa
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Storm Name | Tropical Storm Melissa |
| Current Winds | 50 mph |
| Watch Areas | Hurricane Watch: Haiti, Tropical Storm Watch: Jamaica |
| Expected Rainfall | 5 to 10 inches in Haiti and the Dominican Republic, 1 to 3 inches in Jamaica and Puerto Rico |
| Location | South of Haiti and the Dominican Republic |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- 11Alive: Tropical Storm Melissa Forms in the Caribbean
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Imelda Officially Forms
- Patch: Imelda to Bring Dangerous Conditions
- WSB TV: Tropical Storm Updates
- Wikipedia: Tropical Storm
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
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