Cyclone the storm Grows Stronger While Moves Toward Jamaica
Hurricane the storm is projected to become a uncommon Category 5 hurricane as it turns towards the Caribbean island, delivering deadly sudden floods and landslides.
The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean region and is projected to reach land by Tuesday, according to weather experts.
Alerts of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been announced as Melissa generates up to 76cm of precipitation and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," residents have been told.
The cyclone is the thirteenth storm in the current Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.
Category Five Hurricane Risk
A highest-level cyclone is the strongest type, with winds of at least 252 km/h.
While Melissa is set to weaken to a category four storm before reaching the island, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the island.
Urgent Safety Steps
With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall already expected ahead of it crosses Jamaica's central region - including potentially the city of Kingston - warnings state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".
"Several days of harmful winds and torrential rain are underway and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and numerous landslides," urged weather authorities.
The country's head of government Andrew Holness said: "I know that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: worry is natural.
"Yet the best way to address anxiety and any apprehension and anxiety is to stay ready."
Inhabitants are being instructed to secure their homes with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on necessary supplies.
Regional Consequences
Advisories are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country such as the primary urban center, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is anticipated to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.
Mudslides currently triggered by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to local authorities.
Expected Trajectory
This weather system is forecast to cross Cuba by midweek before passing across the Greater Antilles and out into the Atlantic.
By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is anticipated to have diminished to a category three cyclone.
Weather Connection
While it is hard to link individual weather events to climate change, experts say it is resulting in meteorological events more common and more extreme.
Increased sea temperatures generate additional humidity in the atmosphere, contributing to the creation of hurricanes.
Before the start of this season's Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities forecast above-normal activity, referencing warmer seas and potential stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms typically originate.