Cyclone the storm Grows Stronger As It Moves Towards Jamaica
Tropical Storm Melissa is projected to escalate to a uncommon category five storm as it veers toward Jamaica, bringing deadly rapid inundation and rock falls.
The hurricane, which recorded winds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to reach land by early next week, as reported by hurricane specialists.
Warnings of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been announced as this storm produces up to thirty inches of rain and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Take cover without delay," residents have been urged.
The cyclone is the 13th hurricane in the current Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.
Most Intense Hurricane Threat
A highest-level storm is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.
Although Melissa is set to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 storm before reaching Jamaica, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the island.
Urgent Safety Steps
With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance long before it crosses the island's interior - possibly even the city of Kingston - advisories emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".
"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall has started and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and numerous rock slides," advised meteorological officials.
The nation's leader the statesman said: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: worry is natural.
"Yet the best way to handle worry and any nervousness and anxiety is to stay ready."
Inhabitants are being advised to protect their properties with protective bags and timber panels, and to gather essentials.
Broader Impact
Alerts are also active for areas in Haiti including the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is projected to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.
Rock slides currently triggered by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to local authorities.
Expected Trajectory
This weather system is projected to cross Cuba by the middle of the week before traveling via the Greater Antilles and out into the open ocean.
By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is predicted to have diminished to a category three cyclone.
Environmental Background
Even though it is hard to associate individual weather events to global warming, scientists say it is resulting in climate patterns increasingly frequent and more severe.
Increased sea temperatures produce additional humidity in the environment, helping fuel the development of storms.
Ahead of the commencement of the current Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities forecast above-normal activity, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and possible enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where Atlantic storms typically originate.
