Hurricane the storm Gains Power As It Heads Toward the Island Nation
Tropical Storm the storm is predicted to become a infrequent Category 5 storm as it shifts toward Jamaica, bringing deadly rapid inundation and landslides.
The cyclone, which recorded winds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to reach land by midweek, according to hurricane specialists.
Alerts of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been released as the hurricane brings up to 76cm of rainfall and storm surges as high as 4m above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," locals have been advised.
Melissa is the 13th named storm in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in late autumn.
Highest-Level Storm Threat
A highest-level storm is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.
Although the hurricane is projected to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 storm before arriving at Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it impacts the island.
Urgent Readiness Measures
With tropical storm-strength winds and rain anticipated well in advance long before it crosses central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - warnings indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".
"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and many mudslides," urged climate experts.
The nation's leader the statesman said: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: concern is justified.
"However the optimal approach to address anxiety and any unease and worry is to be prepared."
Residents are being told to secure their homes with sand barriers and timber panels, and to stock up on essentials.
Broader Impact
Alerts are also in effect for regions of Haiti including the capital, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.
Mudslides currently triggered by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to emergency services.
Expected Path
Melissa is predicted to cross the island nation by the middle of the week before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic.
By the time it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have reduced to a Category 3 cyclone.
Climate Context
Although it is hard to associate particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, scientists say it is making weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more severe.
Higher ocean heat generate more moisture in the environment, aiding in the formation of hurricanes.
Before the start of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities forecast increased storm frequency, citing warmer seas and potential enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.
