🔗 Share this article

Tropical Storm the storm is predicted to strengthen into a infrequent highest-level cyclone as it veers toward the Caribbean island, causing deadly flash flooding and mudslides.

The cyclone, which had wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to make landfall by early next week, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Alerts of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been announced as this storm produces up to thirty inches of precipitation and sea level surges as high as 4m above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," residents have been told.

Melissa is the thirteenth cyclone in the current Atlantic season, which normally finishes in November.

Most Intense Hurricane Threat

A category five hurricane is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

Even though the hurricane is expected to weaken to a category four storm before arriving at Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it strikes the nation.

Immediate Safety Steps

With storm-force winds and rain predicted to begin well before it passes over the island's interior - including potentially the national capital - alerts indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of damaging winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and many landslides," urged meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official commented: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"Yet the optimal approach to handle worry and any apprehension and worry is to remain prepared."

Locals are being told to secure their homes with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to gather necessary supplies.

Regional Impact

Alerts are also active for parts of Haiti including the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is expected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Mudslides currently triggered by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Future Path

The hurricane is predicted to cross Cuba by midweek before traveling via the Greater Antilles and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

By the point it makes contact with Cuba, it is anticipated to have reduced to a Category 3 hurricane.

Weather Connection

Although it is difficult to connect specific storms to global warming, scientists say it is resulting in weather phenomena more prevalent and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures create greater water vapor in the air, contributing to the development of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the commencement of the current Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities projected increased storm frequency, referencing warmer seas and possible enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.