Tropical Storm Melissa lumbers through the Caribbean as islands take cover from rain

Tropical Storm Melissa is posing a significant threat to Jamaica and southern Hispaniola, with officials urging evacuations due to the risk of dangerous landslides and life-threatening flooding. The slow-moving storm, packing 50 mph winds, is expected to strengthen and move closer to the islands. Preparations are underway, including opening shelters and closing schools, while concerns mount for Haiti, already grappling with gang violence and a cholera outbreak. International aid has been allocated to assist vulnerable populations in Haiti.