Cyclone the storm Gains Power As It Barrels Towards Jamaica
Hurricane Melissa is projected to become a uncommon Category 5 hurricane as it shifts towards Jamaica, bringing deadly rapid inundation and rock falls.
The cyclone, which recorded winds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is expected to hit the coast by early next week, as reported by hurricane specialists.
Alerts of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been released as this storm brings up to thirty inches of precipitation and sea level surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," residents have been urged.
This hurricane is the 13th hurricane in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in late autumn.
Most Intense Storm Danger
A category five hurricane is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.
Although Melissa is expected to diminish in strength to a fourth-level hurricane before arriving at the island, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the island.
Urgent Preparations
With tropical storm-strength winds and rain anticipated well in advance ahead of it moves across Jamaica's central region - possibly even the national capital - warnings state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".
"Several days of damaging winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and numerous mudslides," urged meteorological officials.
The nation's leader Andrew Holness said: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: concern is justified.
"But the optimal approach to handle worry and any unease and worry is to remain prepared."
Residents are being advised to fortify their houses with sandbags and timber panels, and to gather necessary supplies.
Broader Impact
Warnings are also in effect for areas in Haiti including the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is projected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.
Landslides currently triggered by the cyclone have already killed two in the country, according to emergency services.
Projected Path
The hurricane is projected to cross the island nation by Wednesday before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic.
By the moment it arrives at Cuba, it is forecast to have reduced to a third-level cyclone.
Environmental Context
Although it is difficult to associate specific storms to climate change, scientists say it is causing weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more extreme.
Warmer oceans create more moisture in the air, contributing to the development of hurricanes.
Prior to the commencement of this year's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations predicted increased storm frequency, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and potential enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms typically originate.
