Hurricane the storm Grows Stronger As It Barrels Toward Jamaica
Hurricane Melissa is forecast to strengthen into a infrequent highest-level hurricane as it turns in the direction of Jamaica, bringing dangerous flash flooding and mudslides.
The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to make landfall by midweek, according to meteorological authorities.
Warnings of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as this storm brings up to 76cm of rainfall and storm surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been advised.
Melissa is the 13th storm in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in November.
Category Five Hurricane Danger
A category five hurricane is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 252 km/h.
Even though this storm is set to diminish in strength to a Category 4 hurricane before making landfall on the island, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the island.
Urgent Readiness Measures
With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance long before it moves across Jamaica's central region - including potentially the capital, Kingston - alerts emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".
"Several days of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall has started and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and numerous mudslides," advised meteorological officials.
Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness said: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are anxious, who are very concerned, and with good reason: worry is natural.
"But the best way to address nervousness and any apprehension and worry is to remain prepared."
Locals are being advised to fortify their houses with protective bags and timber panels, and to accumulate basic necessities.
Broader Impact
Advisories are also in effect for areas in Haiti such as the capital, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where this storm is expected to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.
Mudslides presently generated by the storm have caused two deaths in the country, according to emergency services.
Projected Path
The hurricane is predicted to move across Cuba by the middle of the week before moving through the Greater Antilles and out into the Atlantic Ocean.
By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is anticipated to have weakened to a third-level cyclone.
Climate Context
While it is difficult to connect particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, experts say it is resulting in climate patterns more prevalent and more extreme.
Higher ocean heat generate greater water vapor in the environment, contributing to the creation of tropical cyclones.
Ahead of the beginning of the current Atlantic storm period, climate agencies predicted increased storm frequency, mentioning warmer seas and likely enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.
