Tropical Storm Melissa Intensifies As It Moves Towards the Island Nation
Hurricane the storm is predicted to strengthen into a infrequent highest-level cyclone as it turns in the direction of Jamaica, bringing life-threatening flash flooding and mudslides.
This weather system, which recorded wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to make landfall by early next week, according to hurricane specialists.
Warnings of blackouts and structural damage have been released as Melissa produces up to 30 inches of rainfall and storm surges as high as 4m above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," residents have been advised.
The cyclone is the 13th storm in this year's Atlantic season, which typically ends in late autumn.
Most Intense Hurricane Danger
A Category 5 storm is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.
Even though this storm is projected to reduce in intensity to a fourth-level storm before making landfall on the island, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it hits the nation.
Critical Readiness Measures
With storm-force gusts and precipitation predicted to begin long before it moves across central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - warnings state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".
"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and torrential rain have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and numerous mudslides," urged meteorological officials.
The country's head of government the statesman stated: "I know that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.
"But the most effective method to address nervousness and any apprehension and worry is to stay ready."
Inhabitants are being told to protect their properties with sandbags and timber panels, and to accumulate essentials.
Wider Impact
Warnings are also in effect for parts of Haiti including the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.
Rock slides presently generated by the hurricane have already killed two in Haiti, according to local authorities.
Future Path
Melissa is projected to move across the island nation by Wednesday before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and entering the Atlantic.
By the time it reaches Cuba, it is predicted to have diminished to a category three storm.
Climate Background
Although it is difficult to connect individual weather events to climate change, experts say it is causing meteorological events more common and more extreme.
Warmer oceans produce more moisture in the atmosphere, helping fuel the creation of hurricanes.
Before the start of this year's Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities predicted increased storm frequency, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and possible stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where hurricanes frequently develop.