Tropical Storm the storm Gains Power While Heads Toward Jamaica
Hurricane Melissa is predicted to strengthen into a infrequent category five storm as it shifts toward Jamaica, causing deadly rapid inundation and rock falls.
The cyclone, which had wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to hit the coast by early next week, as reported by hurricane specialists.
Advisories of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been released as the hurricane brings up to thirty inches of rain and storm surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been urged.
Melissa is the thirteenth hurricane in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in November.
Most Intense Cyclone Threat
A highest-level hurricane is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.
While Melissa is expected to diminish in strength to a fourth-level storm before arriving at the island, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the country.
Urgent Preparations
With storm-force wind and rainfall already expected well before it moves across Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - warnings indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".
"Several days of harmful winds and torrential rain has started and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and multiple rock slides," advised weather authorities.
Jamaican Prime Minister the official said: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: concern is justified.
"However the most effective method to handle nervousness and any nervousness and anxiety is to be prepared."
Locals are being advised to protect their properties with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to gather basic necessities.
Broader Impact
Warnings are also ongoing for regions of the neighboring country such as the capital, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is expected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.
Mudslides already being caused by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to local authorities.
Expected Trajectory
Melissa is predicted to move across the island nation by the middle of the week before passing across the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.
By the moment it makes contact with Cuba, it is anticipated to have reduced to a Category 3 cyclone.
Environmental Context
Although it is challenging to associate particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, experts say it is causing weather phenomena more common and more intense.
Higher ocean heat generate more moisture in the air, helping fuel the development of storms.
Prior to the beginning of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations forecast increased storm frequency, referencing warmer seas and possible stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms often form.
