Tropical Storm the storm Gains Power As It Moves Toward the Island Nation
Cyclone the storm is projected to escalate to a rare highest-level storm as it veers in the direction of Jamaica, causing life-threatening flash flooding and mudslides.
The hurricane, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean and is projected to make landfall by Tuesday, according to weather experts.
Alerts of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been issued as this storm brings up to 76cm of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Find safe refuge immediately," locals have been urged.
This hurricane is the 13th hurricane in this year's Atlantic season, which normally finishes in November.
Most Intense Storm Danger
A Category 5 cyclone is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.
While this storm is projected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 hurricane before arriving at Jamaica, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it hits the island.
Immediate Preparations
With tropical storm-strength winds and rain predicted to begin long before it crosses central Jamaica - including potentially the city of Kingston - alerts emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".
"Several days of harmful winds and torrential rain are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and numerous landslides," counseled weather authorities.
The nation's leader the statesman commented: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: worry is natural.
"However the best way to address anxiety and any nervousness and worry is to be prepared."
Inhabitants are being told to protect their properties with sandbags and timber panels, and to gather basic necessities.
Wider Consequences
Advisories are also active for areas in Haiti encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.
Mudslides presently generated by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.
Future Trajectory
Melissa is forecast to move across Cuba by Wednesday before passing across the Greater Antilles and emerging into the Atlantic.
By the moment it reaches Cuba, it is predicted to have reduced to a third-level hurricane.
Climate Connection
While it is difficult to connect particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, researchers say it is making meteorological events more prevalent and more severe.
Increased sea temperatures generate more moisture in the atmosphere, contributing to the creation of tropical cyclones.
Before the beginning of the current Caribbean cyclone season, weather organizations forecast increased storm frequency, referencing warmer seas and likely stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.
