Cyclone the storm Intensifies While Barrels Toward the Island Nation
Hurricane the storm is predicted to escalate to a rare highest-level storm as it veers toward Jamaica, bringing deadly flash flooding and landslides.
The cyclone, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to hit the coast by midweek, according to meteorological authorities.
Advisories of power cuts and structural damage have been released as Melissa generates up to 76cm of precipitation and storm surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been advised.
This hurricane is the thirteenth storm in the ongoing Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.
Most Intense Cyclone Danger
A highest-level hurricane is the strongest type, with winds of at least 157mph.
Even though this storm is projected to weaken to a fourth-level cyclone before arriving at Jamaica, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the country.
Immediate Safety Steps
With tropical storm-strength winds and rain anticipated well in advance well before it crosses Jamaica's central region - including potentially the national capital - alerts emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".
"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and intense precipitation have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and numerous mudslides," counseled weather authorities.
Jamaican Prime Minister the official commented: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.
"However the optimal approach to address anxiety and any unease and anxiety is to remain prepared."
Inhabitants are being instructed to fortify their houses with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on basic necessities.
Wider Impact
Warnings are also in effect for regions of Haiti including the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where this storm is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.
Rock slides already being caused by the hurricane have already killed two in the country, according to emergency services.
Expected Path
Melissa is forecast to move across Cuba by Wednesday before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and emerging into the Atlantic.
By the time it makes contact with Cuba, it is predicted to have reduced to a Category 3 storm.
Climate Connection
Even though it is hard to link individual weather events to environmental shifts, experts say it is making weather phenomena more common and more intense.
Increased sea temperatures generate more moisture in the environment, aiding in the development of storms.
Prior to the beginning of the current Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations forecast higher-than-average occurrence, referencing warmer seas and likely enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where tropical systems often form.
