Tropical Storm Melissa Forms — No Threat to Honduras

By ARC+ News Weather Desk | October 21, 2025

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) confirmed Tuesday morning that Tropical Storm Melissa has formed over the central Atlantic Ocean, becoming the latest named system of the 2025 hurricane season. Melissa developed from a well-organized tropical depression late Monday night, strengthening just enough to earn its name early Tuesday as it continues tracking northwestward over open waters.

As of 9:00 a.m. local time, Tropical Storm Melissa was located roughly 1,200 miles northeast of the Lesser Antilles, moving toward the north-northwest at around 10 mph. Maximum sustained winds were near 45 mph (75 km/h) with higher gusts. Meteorologists expect Melissa to maintain tropical-storm strength over the next day or two before encountering cooler waters and stronger wind shear — factors that will likely cause gradual weakening later this week.

No Threat to Central America or the Caribbean

Forecasters emphasize that Melissa poses no threat to Honduras, Central America, or the western Caribbean.

The storm’s projected track keeps it well out to sea, steering it northward into the open Atlantic. No coastal watches or warnings are in effect anywhere in the region.

“This is a classic open-ocean system,” an ARC+ meteorologist explained. “It’s moving away from land, and we do not expect any impacts for Honduras or nearby countries.”

While Honduras remains clear of tropical threats, local authorities continue monitoring regional weather conditions as part of standard protocol during the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs through November 30.

Marine forecasts for the western Caribbean remain favorable. Light winds and gentle seas are expected around Roatan, Utila, and Guanaja, with no significant wave activity associated with Melissa. Tour operators and beach businesses can continue normal activities without interruption.

“It’s smooth sailing for our Bay Islands,” said a local weather observer in Roatan. “The storm’s far away — we’re just watching blue skies and calm waters.”

The NHC continues to monitor two additional tropical disturbances in the far eastern Atlantic, but neither currently shows signs of immediate development. Central America’s weather pattern is expected to stay mostly stable, with scattered afternoon showers typical for October.