Hurricane the storm Gains Power As It Moves In the Direction of the Island Nation
Cyclone Melissa is predicted to strengthen into a uncommon highest-level cyclone as it turns towards the Caribbean island, causing life-threatening rapid inundation and mudslides.
The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean region and is projected to reach land by early next week, according to meteorological authorities.
Alerts of electricity outages and structural damage have been released as this storm brings up to thirty inches of rainfall and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," locals have been told.
The cyclone is the 13th storm in the ongoing Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.
Most Intense Storm Danger
A Category 5 hurricane is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.
Even though Melissa is projected to diminish in strength to a category four cyclone before making landfall on Jamaica, experts 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.
Immediate Safety Steps
With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall predicted to begin ahead of it crosses central Jamaica - including potentially the national capital - advisories indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".
"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and torrential rain has started and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and numerous rock slides," urged meteorological officials.
Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness said: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: concern is justified.
"But the optimal approach to address nervousness and any nervousness and worry is to stay ready."
Inhabitants are being advised to secure their homes with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to accumulate essentials.
Wider Impact
Advisories are also active for regions of the neighboring country including the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is anticipated to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.
Mudslides currently triggered by the hurricane have caused two deaths in the country, according to local authorities.
Future Path
This weather system is forecast to pass over the island nation by Wednesday before moving through the Greater Antilles and entering the open ocean.
By the time it makes contact with Cuba, it is forecast to have diminished to a third-level cyclone.
Environmental Background
Even though it is challenging to connect individual weather events to global warming, researchers say it is resulting in meteorological events increasingly frequent and more severe.
Increased sea temperatures produce greater water vapor in the atmosphere, contributing to the formation of storms.
Prior to the beginning of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, weather organizations forecast increased storm frequency, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and potential stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where tropical systems frequently develop.