Tropical Storm Melissa Intensifies As It Moves Toward the Island Nation
Hurricane the storm is predicted to strengthen into a uncommon Category 5 cyclone as it shifts in the direction of Jamaica, delivering deadly flash flooding and landslides.
The cyclone, which recorded winds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to make landfall by early next week, based on data from meteorological authorities.
Alerts of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been issued as Melissa produces up to 30 inches of rainfall and storm surges as high as 4m above typical tides. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been advised.
This hurricane is the thirteenth storm in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in late autumn.
Category Five Storm Risk
A highest-level hurricane is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.
Although the hurricane is projected to weaken to a category four storm before reaching the island, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the nation.
Immediate Preparations
With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall predicted to begin well before it passes over the island's interior - possibly even the city of Kingston - advisories state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".
"Several days of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall has started and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and multiple landslides," advised meteorological officials.
The country's head of government the official stated: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: concern is justified.
"But the most effective method to address nervousness and any unease and concern is to be prepared."
Locals are being instructed to protect their properties with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to stock up on essentials.
Broader Effects
Alerts are also ongoing for regions of Haiti encompassing the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is expected to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.
Mudslides currently triggered by the hurricane have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to local authorities.
Future Path
Melissa is forecast to cross Cuba by the middle of the week before passing across the Greater Antilles and entering the Atlantic Ocean.
By the point it makes contact with Cuba, it is forecast to have diminished to a category three cyclone.
Weather Context
Even though it is difficult to connect particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, experts say it is resulting in weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more severe.
Warmer oceans create more moisture in the air, aiding in the creation of storms.
Ahead of the start of the current Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies predicted above-normal activity, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and likely enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where tropical systems often form.
