Hurricane the storm Grows Stronger While Heads Toward the Island Nation
Hurricane the storm is projected to strengthen into a infrequent highest-level cyclone as it veers toward the Caribbean island, delivering deadly flash flooding and mudslides.
The cyclone, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to hit the coast by Tuesday, based on data from meteorological authorities.
Warnings of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been issued as this storm produces up to thirty inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," locals have been urged.
The cyclone is the 13th storm in the current Atlantic season, which usually concludes in November.
Most Intense Cyclone Danger
A highest-level storm is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.
Although the hurricane is projected to weaken to a category four cyclone before reaching the island, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the nation.
Immediate Safety Steps
With tropical storm-level winds and rain predicted to begin ahead of it moves across the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - alerts indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".
"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and intense precipitation has started and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and multiple rock slides," advised weather authorities.
Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness commented: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: concern is justified.
"But the most effective method to address nervousness and any apprehension and anxiety is to stay ready."
Residents are being told to protect their properties with protective bags and wooden boards, and to accumulate basic necessities.
Broader Impact
Advisories are also in effect for areas in the neighboring country encompassing the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is expected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.
Rock slides already being caused by the cyclone have caused two deaths in the country, according to local authorities.
Projected Course
This weather system is forecast to move across Cuba by the middle of the week before passing across the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic Ocean.
By the time it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have weakened to a Category 3 hurricane.
Environmental Background
While it is difficult to associate individual weather events to environmental shifts, scientists say it is causing meteorological events more common and more severe.
Warmer oceans create greater water vapor in the air, aiding in the creation of tropical cyclones.
Before the commencement of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, weather organizations forecast above-normal activity, referencing heated marine conditions and possible stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where hurricanes frequently develop.
