Tropical Storm Melissa Grows Stronger As It Heads In the Direction of Jamaica
Cyclone Melissa is predicted to escalate to a infrequent highest-level cyclone as it turns toward the Caribbean island, causing dangerous flash flooding and mudslides.
The cyclone, which had winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to make landfall by early next week, based on data from hurricane specialists.
Alerts of power cuts and structural damage have been issued as the hurricane brings up to 76cm of precipitation and storm surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been told.
This hurricane is the 13th storm in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in November.
Highest-Level Hurricane Danger
A Category 5 hurricane is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.
While this storm is expected to weaken to a Category 4 hurricane before reaching Jamaica, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it hits the country.
Immediate Readiness Measures
With tropical storm-level winds and rain anticipated well in advance ahead of it passes over central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - warnings indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".
"Several days of harmful winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and numerous landslides," advised meteorological officials.
The country's head of government the statesman stated: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are very concerned, and with good reason: concern is justified.
"Yet the best way to manage nervousness and any unease and concern is to stay ready."
Inhabitants are being advised to fortify their houses with protective bags and wooden boards, and to gather basic necessities.
Wider Consequences
Warnings are also ongoing for areas in the neighboring country encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where this storm is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.
Landslides presently generated by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to emergency services.
Expected Trajectory
The hurricane is projected to cross Cuba by Wednesday before traveling via the Greater Antilles and out into the open ocean.
By the moment it arrives at Cuba, it is forecast to have diminished to a third-level storm.
Weather Background
While it is challenging to connect specific storms to global warming, experts say it is resulting in weather phenomena more common and more extreme.
Warmer oceans produce greater water vapor in the atmosphere, contributing to the creation of hurricanes.
Ahead of the start of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities projected above-normal activity, citing warmer seas and likely enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms often form.
