Cyclone the storm Intensifies While Moves In the Direction of the Island Nation
Cyclone the storm is forecast to escalate to a uncommon Category 5 hurricane as it shifts toward the Caribbean island, causing dangerous flash flooding and mudslides.
The cyclone, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean and is anticipated to reach land by early next week, as reported by hurricane specialists.
Warnings of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been issued as the hurricane brings up to 76cm of rainfall and sea level surges as high as 4m above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," residents have been urged.
The cyclone is the thirteenth hurricane in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in November.
Most Intense Storm Danger
A highest-level storm is the strongest type, with winds of at least 157mph.
While this storm is projected to weaken to a Category 4 cyclone before making landfall on Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the country.
Urgent Preparations
With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall already expected long before it crosses the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - alerts emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".
"A multi-day period of harmful winds and torrential rain have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and multiple mudslides," urged meteorological officials.
Jamaican Prime Minister the official commented: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: worry is natural.
"However the optimal approach to address anxiety and any unease and worry is to be prepared."
Residents are being instructed to protect their properties with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on basic necessities.
Regional Impact
Advisories are also in effect for parts of the neighboring country encompassing the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.
Rock slides presently generated by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to local authorities.
Projected Trajectory
Melissa is projected to cross Cuba by Wednesday before passing across the Greater Antilles and out into the Atlantic.
By the time it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have weakened to a third-level hurricane.
Environmental Connection
Even though it is difficult to associate particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, researchers say it is resulting in weather phenomena more common and more extreme.
Higher ocean heat create more moisture in the atmosphere, contributing to the development of hurricanes.
Prior to the start of this year's Atlantic storm period, climate agencies projected above-normal activity, mentioning warmer seas and potential more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where hurricanes typically originate.
