Tropical Storm Melissa Grows Stronger As It Barrels Towards the Island Nation
Cyclone the storm is forecast to become a uncommon category five hurricane as it shifts toward Jamaica, delivering deadly sudden floods and mudslides.
The hurricane, which registered wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean and is expected to hit the coast by Tuesday, based on data from meteorological authorities.
Advisories of blackouts and structural damage have been announced as the hurricane brings up to thirty inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been advised.
This hurricane is the 13th named storm in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.
Most Intense Cyclone Danger
A category five storm is the most intense classification, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.
While this storm is set to weaken to a Category 4 cyclone before arriving at Jamaica, experts said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the island.
Urgent Preparations
With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall predicted to begin ahead of it moves across Jamaica's central region - possibly even the capital, Kingston - advisories indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".
"Several days of damaging winds and torrential rain has started and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and numerous mudslides," counseled climate experts.
Jamaican Prime Minister the official stated: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: worry is natural.
"But the optimal approach to handle worry and any apprehension and concern is to stay ready."
Inhabitants are being instructed to protect their properties with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to accumulate necessary supplies.
Regional Impact
Warnings are also in effect for areas in the neighboring country such as the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is projected to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.
Mudslides presently generated by the cyclone have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to local authorities.
Future Course
This weather system is projected to cross Cuba by the middle of the week before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and emerging into the Atlantic.
By the time it makes contact with Cuba, it is anticipated to have diminished to a third-level hurricane.
Weather Background
Although it is challenging to link particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, experts say it is resulting in meteorological events more common and more extreme.
Increased sea temperatures generate additional humidity in the environment, contributing to the formation of tropical cyclones.
Prior to the beginning of the current Caribbean cyclone season, weather organizations projected higher-than-average occurrence, citing elevated ocean temperatures and likely stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where hurricanes often form.