Tropical Storm the storm Gains Power As It Heads In the Direction of Jamaica
Hurricane Melissa is projected to become a infrequent category five storm as it veers towards Jamaica, causing life-threatening flash flooding and rock falls.
The cyclone, which had winds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is expected to hit the coast by early next week, based on data from meteorological authorities.
Warnings of electricity outages and structural damage have been issued as the hurricane generates up to 30 inches of rainfall and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been urged.
This hurricane is the thirteenth cyclone in this year's Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in November.
Highest-Level Storm Risk
A highest-level storm is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 252 km/h.
Even though this storm is set to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 storm before reaching Jamaica, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the island.
Critical Readiness Measures
With tropical storm-strength winds and rain already expected long before it passes over Jamaica's central region - including potentially the national capital - warnings emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".
"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and many rock slides," advised weather authorities.
Jamaican Prime Minister the official commented: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and appropriately: you should be concerned.
"But the best way to manage worry and any nervousness and anxiety is to stay ready."
Inhabitants are being advised to secure their homes with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to accumulate essentials.
Wider Effects
Warnings are also in effect for areas in Haiti encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.
Rock slides currently triggered by the storm have caused two deaths in the country, according to emergency services.
Future Course
The hurricane is predicted to pass over the island nation by Wednesday before passing across the Antillas Mayores and entering the open ocean.
By the time it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have diminished to a third-level cyclone.
Weather Context
Although it is difficult to associate particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, researchers say it is making climate patterns more prevalent and more extreme.
Increased sea temperatures create more moisture in the air, aiding in the development of storms.
Prior to the start of the current Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities projected above-normal activity, citing warmer seas and likely enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where tropical systems frequently develop.
