Cyclone the storm Gains Power While Heads In the Direction of Jamaica
Cyclone the storm is predicted to strengthen into a rare Category 5 hurricane as it shifts toward the Caribbean island, causing dangerous rapid inundation and rock falls.
The hurricane, which registered winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean region and is projected to hit the coast by early next week, as reported by weather experts.
Alerts of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been released as Melissa produces up to 76cm of rain and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," residents have been told.
Melissa is the 13th named cyclone in this year's Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in late autumn.
Most Intense Cyclone Threat
A highest-level hurricane is the strongest type, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.
While this storm is set to diminish in strength to a fourth-level hurricane before making landfall on Jamaica, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the nation.
Critical Readiness Measures
With storm-force winds and rain already expected long before it crosses central Jamaica - possibly even the city of Kingston - alerts emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".
"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and numerous mudslides," counseled weather authorities.
The country's head of government the statesman commented: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are very concerned, and appropriately: you should be concerned.
"However the best way to handle anxiety and any apprehension and anxiety is to be prepared."
Locals are being instructed to secure their homes with sandbags and timber panels, and to stock up on basic necessities.
Wider Consequences
Advisories are also active for parts of Haiti encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.
Rock slides presently generated by the storm have caused two deaths in the country, according to local authorities.
Projected Trajectory
The hurricane is predicted to pass over Cuba by midweek before passing across the Greater Antilles and out into the Atlantic.
By the time it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have diminished to a third-level storm.
Weather Connection
Even though it is hard to connect specific storms to global warming, experts say it is causing climate patterns more prevalent and more extreme.
Higher ocean heat produce additional humidity in the atmosphere, aiding in the creation of tropical cyclones.
Prior to the start of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities forecast increased storm frequency, citing warmer seas and possible enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms typically originate.
