Cyclone the storm Intensifies As It Moves Towards Jamaica
Cyclone the storm is forecast to strengthen into a rare Category 5 hurricane as it turns toward the Caribbean island, bringing deadly flash flooding and mudslides.
The hurricane, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean region and is expected to make landfall by early next week, based on data from meteorological authorities.
Alerts of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been released as the hurricane produces up to thirty inches of rainfall and sea level surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been urged.
This hurricane is the thirteenth cyclone in this year's Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.
Most Intense Hurricane Danger
A Category 5 hurricane is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.
While the hurricane is projected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 storm before making landfall on Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the country.
Urgent Preparations
With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall already expected ahead of it moves across Jamaica's central region - including potentially the national capital - warnings state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".
"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and numerous mudslides," urged weather authorities.
Jamaican Prime Minister the official commented: "I know that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: worry is natural.
"Yet the best way to address anxiety and any apprehension and concern is to be prepared."
Residents are being advised to protect their properties with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to stock up on necessary supplies.
Regional Consequences
Alerts are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country including the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is anticipated to bring similar effects by the midweek period.
Mudslides presently generated by the hurricane have caused two deaths in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.
Expected Path
The hurricane is forecast to pass over Cuba by midweek before moving through the Greater Antilles and entering the Atlantic Ocean.
By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is anticipated to have weakened to a category three cyclone.
Environmental Connection
Even though it is challenging to link individual weather events to climate change, researchers say it is resulting in meteorological events more prevalent and more extreme.
Higher ocean heat produce more moisture in the environment, helping fuel the creation of storms.
Before the beginning of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities predicted higher-than-average occurrence, citing heated marine conditions and potential stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.
