Cyclone the storm Gains Power As It Barrels Toward Jamaica
Hurricane Melissa is predicted to become a rare highest-level hurricane as it turns toward Jamaica, bringing dangerous rapid inundation and rock falls.
The cyclone, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean and is expected to make landfall by midweek, according to meteorological authorities.
Advisories of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been issued as Melissa brings up to 30 inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been advised.
The cyclone is the 13th storm in the current Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in November.
Most Intense Cyclone Threat
A Category 5 cyclone is the strongest type, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.
Even though Melissa is expected to weaken to a fourth-level cyclone before reaching Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it hits the nation.
Critical Readiness Measures
With tropical storm-level winds and rain predicted to begin long before it passes over the island's interior - possibly even the capital, Kingston - warnings emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".
"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and multiple landslides," advised weather authorities.
Jamaican Prime Minister the official commented: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are very concerned, and appropriately: you should be concerned.
"But the best way to manage nervousness and any unease and anxiety is to be prepared."
Inhabitants are being advised to secure their homes with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on basic necessities.
Wider Impact
Alerts are also active for parts of Haiti encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where this storm is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.
Mudslides already being caused by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to emergency services.
Expected Path
This weather system is forecast to pass over the island nation by midweek before traveling via the Greater Antilles and out into the Atlantic Ocean.
By the moment it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have weakened to a category three hurricane.
Environmental Connection
Although it is hard to connect individual weather events to climate change, researchers say it is resulting in meteorological events more common and more intense.
Warmer oceans produce more moisture in the atmosphere, helping fuel the development of tropical cyclones.
Prior to the commencement of this year's Atlantic storm period, climate agencies projected higher-than-average occurrence, referencing warmer seas and potential more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where hurricanes frequently develop.
