Cyclone the storm Gains Power As It Heads Toward Jamaica
Hurricane the storm is projected to strengthen into a rare category five cyclone as it veers in the direction of Jamaica, causing deadly flash flooding and mudslides.
The hurricane, which registered winds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to hit the coast by midweek, according to weather experts.
Alerts of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been released as this storm produces up to 30 inches of precipitation and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Take cover without delay," locals have been told.
Melissa is the thirteenth storm in the ongoing Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.
Most Intense Storm Threat
A Category 5 storm is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.
Even though this storm is expected to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 cyclone before making landfall on the island, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it impacts the island.
Immediate Safety Steps
With storm-force wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance well before it moves across central Jamaica - possibly even the capital, Kingston - advisories indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".
"A multi-day period of damaging winds and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and numerous landslides," urged climate experts.
Jamaican Prime Minister the official commented: "I know that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.
"But the best way to address worry and any apprehension and anxiety is to remain prepared."
Locals are being advised to fortify their houses with protective bags and timber panels, and to stock up on basic necessities.
Broader Impact
Alerts are also in effect for areas in the neighboring country such as the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is expected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.
Landslides presently generated by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to emergency services.
Projected Course
This weather system is predicted to move across Cuba by the middle of the week before passing across the Antillas Mayores and entering the open ocean.
By the moment it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have reduced to a third-level storm.
Weather Background
Even though it is hard to connect particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, experts say it is making meteorological events more prevalent and more intense.
Warmer oceans create more moisture in the environment, helping fuel the formation of storms.
Ahead of the commencement of this year's Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities forecast above-normal activity, referencing warmer seas and potential more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where tropical systems typically originate.
