Hurricane Melissa Intensifies While Barrels In the Direction of the Island Nation
Hurricane the storm is forecast to become a infrequent highest-level hurricane as it veers towards the Caribbean island, delivering deadly flash flooding and mudslides.
The cyclone, which had winds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning toward the northwest in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to make landfall by early next week, as reported by hurricane specialists.
Advisories of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been issued as Melissa generates up to 76cm of precipitation and sea level surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Take cover without delay," residents have been advised.
The cyclone is the 13th hurricane in the ongoing Atlantic season, which typically ends in the eleventh month.
Most Intense Hurricane Danger
A highest-level storm is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.
Although this storm is expected to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 cyclone before reaching Jamaica, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it hits the island.
Critical Preparations
With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance well before it crosses the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - warnings state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".
"A multi-day period of damaging winds and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and many rock slides," advised climate experts.
The nation's leader the official commented: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: worry is natural.
"But the most effective method to address anxiety and any apprehension and concern is to remain prepared."
Locals are being told to protect their properties with sandbags and timber panels, and to gather essentials.
Regional Impact
Warnings are also active for areas in the neighboring country such as the primary urban center, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is expected to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.
Landslides already being caused by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to local authorities.
Expected Course
Melissa is forecast to pass over the island nation by Wednesday before traveling via the Greater Antilles and entering the Atlantic.
By the time it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have reduced to a category three storm.
Climate Connection
While it is hard to link particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, scientists say it is resulting in weather phenomena more prevalent and more intense.
Warmer oceans create greater water vapor in the environment, helping fuel the creation of hurricanes.
Ahead of the start of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies forecast higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and potential enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms often form.
