Tropical Storm Melissa formed Tuesday afternoon and is gaining strength, with forecasters warning it could develop into a slow-moving hurricane capable of producing torrential rain and destructive winds across the Caribbean.

The storm was moving northeast across the Caribbean Sea at 14 mph with maximum sustained winds near 50 mph, according to the National Meteorological Institute (IMN).

"Costa Rica is not expected to experience a direct impact from Melissa," experts noted.

Forecast models show a high probability that the storm will reach its closest point to Costa Rica if it continues on a track toward the Caribbean Coast of Honduras, possibly by Sunday, Oct. 26.

Meteorologists noted that while Costa Rica lies outside Melissa’s projected path, the country could still see periods of heavy rainfall caused by the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ).

The ITCZ is a belt of low pressure near the equator where northeastern and southeastern trade winds meet, often generating thunderstorms and downpours as it shifts across the region.

The U.S. National Hurricane Center reported that a hurricane watch is in effect in Haiti and Jamaica.

In the United States, potential impacts are expected next week, particularly in South Florida, including the Florida Keys. Strong westerly winds could also affect Texas, Louisiana, and the coastal areas of Mississippi, Alabama, and the Florida Panhandle.

Rainfall forecasts by region include:

• Central Mountain Range: from 50 to 100 millimeters, with the heaviest rainfall at higher elevations.

• Pacific Coast (Guanacaste, Puntarenas): 40 to 80 millimeters.

• Central Valley (San José, Alajuela, Heredia, Cartago): 30 to 60 millimeters.

• Caribbean Coast (Limón): 10 to 30 millimeters, with thunderstorms likely.

The Ministry of Public Works and Transportation (MOPT) has issued a precautionary notice for Route 32, the main highway between San José and Limón.

Officials warn that overnight closures are possible due to heavy rainfall and landslide risks. Drivers are urged to consider alternate routes, such as Route 10 through Turrialba Canton (Cartago) and on to Siquirres Canton  (Heredia), before rejoining Route 32 toward Limón. Traffic updates will be shared through MOPT’s official social media channels.

The National Emergency Commission (CNE) has maintained a Green Alert, the first advisory level, urging local emergency committees to remain on standby for possible incidents in the provinces of San José, Cartago, Alajuela and Heredia.


The Pacific Coast, including Puntarenas and Guanacaste, remains under a Yellow Alert,  the second level on the emergency scale,  advising local emergency units to stay prepared for potential large-scale weather impacts.


As of Tuesday, no alerts had been issued for the Caribbean Coast, including Limón Province.

Authorities are advising residents to take the following precautions:

• Avoid rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water during heavy rain.

• In mountain areas, watch for landslides and falling debris.

• Households and businesses in flood-prone zones should review evacuation plans.

• Drivers should beware of flooding, slick roads, and low visibility.

• Stay indoors during thunderstorms and avoid electronic devices.

• Watch for strong winds that could bring down trees or power lines.

• Call 911 to report flooding, landslides, or fallen trees.

IMN is a government agency responsible for issuing weather forecasts, hazardous weather warnings, and related services to protect the public and inform organizations.

CNE works in partnership with communities and emergency responders to strengthen the nation’s preparedness, response, and recovery from natural hazards.

MOPT is the government agency responsible for managing the country’s roads, ports, and airports, as well as overseeing public transportation policy.

A.M. Costa Rica encourages readers to share this weather advisory with family, friends, and neighbors.