Hurricane Melissa Intensifies As It Barrels Towards the Island Nation
Cyclone the storm is predicted to escalate to a rare highest-level storm as it turns in the direction of the Caribbean island, causing life-threatening flash flooding and landslides.
The cyclone, which recorded winds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean and is projected to reach land by early next week, based on data from meteorological authorities.
Alerts of electricity outages and disruption to utilities have been issued as the hurricane brings up to thirty inches of rainfall and sea level surges as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," locals have been urged.
Melissa is the 13th storm in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in November.
Highest-Level Hurricane Threat
A category five hurricane is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.
Even though this storm is set to diminish in strength to a category four hurricane before arriving at Jamaica, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the nation.
Immediate Safety Steps
With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation already expected ahead of it passes over central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the national capital - warnings indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".
"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and many landslides," urged meteorological officials.
The country's head of government the official said: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: worry is natural.
"However the best way to address anxiety and any nervousness and anxiety is to be prepared."
Locals are being advised to secure their homes with sand barriers and timber panels, and to accumulate basic necessities.
Wider Impact
Alerts are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is projected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.
Landslides presently generated by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.
Future Path
Melissa is forecast to pass over the island nation by midweek before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and out into the open ocean.
By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is anticipated to have reduced to a third-level hurricane.
Environmental Context
Although it is difficult to connect specific storms to global warming, scientists say it is causing climate patterns more common and more intense.
Higher ocean heat produce more moisture in the environment, helping fuel the creation of tropical cyclones.
Before the beginning of the current Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities predicted higher-than-average occurrence, citing heated marine conditions and likely stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where tropical systems frequently develop.
