"This is a concern for Caribbean interests – from Honduras and Nicaragua to parts of Cuba, Jamaica, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic – not us stateside in the U.S.," Lowry said.

Tropical Storm Melissa dumped heavy rain on Hispaniola as forecasters warned Wednesday of a significant flood risk in parts of the Caribbean region in the coming days.

A hurricane watch has been issued for parts of Haiti and a tropical storm watch is in effect for Jamaica.