RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — Hurricane Melissa formed in the Caribbean Saturday after lingering as a tropical storm for several days. Originally a storm starting Tuesday morning, Melissa remained nearly stationary, hampered by strong upper-level winds that disrupted its organization despite warm ocean waters.
With wind shear now diminished, Melissa has strengthened into a hurricane.
Hurricane Melissa is expected to undergo rapid intensification over the next two days as it moves slowly south of Jamaica. Rapid intensification occurs when favorable atmospheric conditions align with a well-organized storm and very warm ocean waters, fueling significant strengthening…