Tropical Storm the storm Grows Stronger While Moves Toward the Island Nation
Hurricane Melissa is predicted to become a infrequent Category 5 cyclone as it turns in the direction of Jamaica, delivering dangerous flash flooding and rock falls.
The cyclone, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to reach land by midweek, as reported by weather experts.
Alerts of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been released as the hurricane brings up to thirty inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been urged.
The cyclone is the 13th cyclone in this year's Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in November.
Category Five Hurricane Threat
A highest-level hurricane is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.
Even though the hurricane is expected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 cyclone before making landfall on Jamaica, experts said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the country.
Critical Safety Steps
With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall already expected ahead of it passes over central Jamaica - possibly even the national capital - advisories emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".
"Several days of destructive gusts and intense precipitation have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and multiple rock slides," urged meteorological officials.
The nation's leader the statesman said: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are very concerned, and appropriately: you should be concerned.
"However the best way to manage worry and any nervousness and anxiety is to be prepared."
Inhabitants are being advised to secure their homes with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to gather basic necessities.
Regional Consequences
Advisories are also in effect for areas in the neighboring country such as the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where this storm is expected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.
Mudslides currently triggered by the storm have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to local authorities.
Expected Trajectory
Melissa is forecast to pass over Cuba by Wednesday before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic.
By the moment it reaches Cuba, it is predicted to have weakened to a category three hurricane.
Environmental Background
Although it is hard to connect particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, researchers say it is causing climate patterns more common and more severe.
Increased sea temperatures generate greater water vapor in the air, aiding in the creation of hurricanes.
Prior to the commencement of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies projected higher-than-average occurrence, citing elevated ocean temperatures and possible enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where Atlantic storms often form.
