🔗 Share this article

Cyclone the storm is projected to escalate to a uncommon highest-level storm as it turns in the direction of Jamaica, delivering life-threatening flash flooding and rock falls.

The hurricane, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean and is expected to hit the coast by midweek, according to hurricane specialists.

Alerts of power cuts and structural damage have been announced as the hurricane produces up to 30 inches of rain and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Seek shelter now," locals have been urged.

This hurricane is the 13th named cyclone in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in November.

Most Intense Storm Risk

A highest-level hurricane is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though Melissa is set to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 cyclone before arriving at Jamaica, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the nation.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With storm-force wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance ahead of it crosses the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - alerts indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"Several days of damaging winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and multiple landslides," advised weather authorities.

The country's head of government Andrew Holness said: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"However the best way to address worry and any apprehension and concern is to be prepared."

Locals are being advised to secure their homes with protective bags and timber panels, and to gather essentials.

Broader Impact

Alerts are also active for areas in Haiti encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is projected to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.

Mudslides already being caused by the hurricane have already killed two in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Projected Trajectory

The hurricane is forecast to pass over Cuba by Wednesday before moving through the Antillas Mayores and out into the open ocean.

By the point it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have reduced to a Category 3 cyclone.

Environmental Background

Although it is challenging to link particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, scientists say it is making meteorological events more prevalent and more severe.

Higher ocean heat generate additional humidity in the environment, helping fuel the development of storms.

Prior to the beginning of this season's Atlantic storm period, climate agencies forecast increased storm frequency, mentioning heated marine conditions and potential more intense weather patterns around African coastal regions - where tropical systems often form.