Hurricane Melissa Intensifies As It Heads In the Direction of Jamaica
Cyclone the storm is projected to become a rare category five hurricane as it veers in the direction of Jamaica, bringing dangerous rapid inundation and mudslides.
The cyclone, which recorded winds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to make landfall by midweek, based on data from hurricane specialists.
Advisories of electricity outages and disruption to utilities have been announced as the hurricane brings up to 76cm of rain and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been advised.
This hurricane is the 13th named storm in the current Atlantic season, which typically ends in November.
Most Intense Hurricane Risk
A Category 5 storm is the most intense classification, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.
Even though this storm is set to weaken to a Category 4 hurricane before reaching the island, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the island.
Critical Readiness Measures
With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall already expected ahead of it crosses Jamaica's central region - possibly even the city of Kingston - alerts state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".
"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and torrential rain has started and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and numerous landslides," urged climate experts.
The nation's leader the statesman stated: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are anxious, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: you should be concerned.
"However the most effective method to handle worry and any apprehension and concern is to stay ready."
Locals are being advised to secure their homes with sandbags and wooden boards, and to stock up on necessary supplies.
Regional Impact
Advisories are also ongoing for regions of Haiti including the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is expected to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.
Rock slides already being caused by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to emergency services.
Expected Trajectory
Melissa is projected to cross the island nation by Wednesday before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.
By the time it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have reduced to a third-level storm.
Climate Context
While it is challenging to associate specific storms to global warming, researchers say it is resulting in weather phenomena more common and more severe.
Increased sea temperatures generate additional humidity in the environment, contributing to the formation of tropical cyclones.
Ahead of the commencement of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities projected increased storm frequency, referencing warmer seas and likely more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms often form.