🔗 Share this article

Hurricane the storm is projected to strengthen into a rare Category 5 hurricane as it turns toward the Caribbean island, delivering dangerous sudden floods and mudslides.

The hurricane, which registered winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to reach land by early next week, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Alerts of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been issued as Melissa produces up to 30 inches of rain and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Take cover without delay," locals have been advised.

This hurricane is the thirteenth hurricane in this year's Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Cyclone Threat

A highest-level cyclone is the most intense classification, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

While Melissa is projected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 storm before reaching the island, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the nation.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation already expected well before it moves across Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - alerts emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and torrential rain have begun and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and many mudslides," urged climate experts.

The nation's leader the statesman said: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are very concerned, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"But the best way to handle nervousness and any apprehension and anxiety is to stay ready."

Inhabitants are being advised to protect their properties with sandbags and timber panels, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Regional Effects

Warnings are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is projected to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.

Landslides presently generated by the cyclone have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Projected Trajectory

The hurricane is forecast to cross the island nation by the middle of the week before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and emerging into the open ocean.

By the point it reaches Cuba, it is anticipated to have diminished to a third-level hurricane.

Weather Connection

Although it is difficult to associate individual weather events to climate change, researchers say it is causing meteorological events increasingly frequent and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures produce more moisture in the environment, aiding in the creation of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the beginning of the current Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities forecast higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and potential more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where tropical systems often form.