The Category 5 storm’s slow pace could have devastating effects when it makes landfall. Officials warned those in its path to seek shelter, saying, “This is not the time to be brave.”

Keep up with our 25 News Weather Experts for the latest on weather conditions in your neighborhood as we see locally heavy rain and few severe storms possible Friday night.

The National Hurricane Center warns that Hurricane Melissa poses a threat of catastrophic flash flooding and landslides in Jamaica, Cuba and Hispaniola