Hurricane the storm Gains Power While Heads In the Direction of Jamaica
Cyclone the storm is predicted to become a rare category five cyclone as it turns in the direction of Jamaica, causing deadly rapid inundation and mudslides.
The cyclone, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to make landfall by Tuesday, as reported by weather experts.
Advisories of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been announced as the hurricane produces up to 76cm of rainfall and sea level surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been advised.
This hurricane is the thirteenth storm in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in late autumn.
Most Intense Storm Risk
A Category 5 storm is the most intense classification, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.
Although this storm is set to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 storm before reaching Jamaica, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the island.
Immediate Preparations
With storm-force winds and rain anticipated well in advance well before it crosses central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - alerts indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".
"Several days of damaging winds and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and many landslides," advised weather authorities.
The nation's leader the official said: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: worry is natural.
"But the most effective method to manage anxiety and any unease and worry is to be prepared."
Inhabitants are being advised to secure their homes with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to accumulate necessary supplies.
Regional Impact
Warnings are also ongoing for regions of Haiti including the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.
Mudslides presently generated by the cyclone have caused two deaths in the country, according to emergency services.
Projected Trajectory
Melissa is forecast to move across Cuba by Wednesday before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic.
By the moment it makes contact with Cuba, it is predicted to have reduced to a category three cyclone.
Climate Background
While it is difficult to associate particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, scientists say it is resulting in weather phenomena more prevalent and more severe.
Higher ocean heat produce additional humidity in the environment, aiding in the formation of tropical cyclones.
Ahead of the beginning of the current Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities forecast increased storm frequency, citing elevated ocean temperatures and likely stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where hurricanes typically originate.
