Hurricane the storm Gains Power As It Heads Towards the Island Nation
Hurricane the storm is projected to strengthen into a uncommon highest-level cyclone as it veers in the direction of Jamaica, bringing dangerous flash flooding and landslides.
The cyclone, which had winds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean region and is expected to hit the coast by Tuesday, as reported by meteorological authorities.
Alerts of power cuts and structural damage have been issued as the hurricane generates up to 76cm of rain and storm surges as high as 4m above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been advised.
The cyclone is the thirteenth hurricane in the current Atlantic season, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.
Category Five Cyclone Danger
A Category 5 storm is the most intense classification, with winds of at least 157mph.
While this storm is set to diminish in strength to a Category 4 cyclone before arriving at the island, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the nation.
Critical Readiness Measures
With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation predicted to begin well before it passes over the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - advisories indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".
"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and torrential rain have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and many rock slides," counseled meteorological officials.
The country's head of government the official commented: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: concern is justified.
"But the most effective method to address nervousness and any apprehension and worry is to remain prepared."
Inhabitants are being advised to protect their properties with sandbags and timber panels, and to stock up on necessary supplies.
Regional Consequences
Alerts are also in effect for parts of Haiti encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is expected to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.
Landslides already being caused by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.
Future Path
This weather system is forecast to pass over the island nation by Wednesday before moving through the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic.
By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is forecast to have reduced to a third-level cyclone.
Climate Background
Even though it is hard to link particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, researchers say it is making weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more extreme.
Warmer oceans produce more moisture in the environment, aiding in the development of tropical cyclones.
Before the commencement of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, weather organizations predicted increased storm frequency, citing warmer seas and possible more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where Atlantic storms typically originate.