Hurricane the storm Gains Power As It Moves Toward the Island Nation
Tropical Storm the storm is projected to become a uncommon category five hurricane as it veers towards the Caribbean island, causing deadly flash flooding and landslides.
The cyclone, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to hit the coast by early next week, as reported by hurricane specialists.
Alerts of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been issued as Melissa generates up to thirty inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," locals have been urged.
The cyclone is the thirteenth cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic season, which normally finishes in November.
Category Five Storm Danger
A highest-level storm is the most intense classification, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.
Although Melissa is projected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 storm before reaching Jamaica, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the nation.
Critical Preparations
With storm-force wind and rainfall already expected well before it crosses central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the national capital - advisories emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".
"Several days of damaging winds and torrential rain are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and many mudslides," advised meteorological officials.
The nation's leader the statesman commented: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: you should be concerned.
"But the best way to manage nervousness and any unease and concern is to be prepared."
Locals are being instructed to secure their homes with protective bags and timber panels, and to gather basic necessities.
Wider Consequences
Warnings are also in effect for areas in the neighboring country such as the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.
Rock slides currently triggered by the storm have already killed two in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.
Projected Trajectory
The hurricane is predicted to pass over Cuba by midweek before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and entering the Atlantic Ocean.
By the moment it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have diminished to a category three cyclone.
Weather Context
Even though it is difficult to associate specific storms to global warming, scientists say it is causing weather phenomena more prevalent and more intense.
Increased sea temperatures generate additional humidity in the air, aiding in the formation of storms.
Before the start of this season's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations predicted above-normal activity, citing elevated ocean temperatures and likely enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where tropical systems often form.