Hurricane the storm Gains Power While Moves Toward Jamaica
Cyclone the storm is projected to become a infrequent highest-level hurricane as it turns toward the Caribbean island, delivering dangerous flash flooding and rock falls.
The hurricane, which had winds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean region and is projected to make landfall by Tuesday, according to weather experts.
Advisories of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been issued as the hurricane brings up to 76cm of precipitation and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been told.
This hurricane is the 13th hurricane in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in late autumn.
Category Five Storm Danger
A category five hurricane is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.
While Melissa is projected to weaken to a fourth-level cyclone before reaching Jamaica, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the island.
Critical Preparations
With storm-force winds and rain already expected ahead of it crosses Jamaica's central region - possibly even the national capital - advisories emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".
"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and numerous landslides," urged climate experts.
The country's head of government the official commented: "I know that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and appropriately: worry is natural.
"However the most effective method to manage nervousness and any nervousness and worry is to be prepared."
Locals are being advised to fortify their houses with protective bags and timber panels, and to stock up on necessary supplies.
Broader Consequences
Alerts are also in effect for parts of the neighboring country such as the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is expected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.
Landslides currently triggered by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.
Projected Path
This weather system is projected to move across Cuba by midweek before traveling via the Greater Antilles and entering the open ocean.
By the time it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have diminished to a category three storm.
Weather Connection
While it is challenging to connect individual weather events to climate change, experts say it is making weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more severe.
Increased sea temperatures create more moisture in the atmosphere, aiding in the formation of tropical cyclones.
Before the start of the current Atlantic storm period, climate agencies predicted higher-than-average occurrence, citing warmer seas and possible enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where tropical systems frequently develop.
