🔗 Share this article

Tropical Storm the storm is forecast to strengthen into a uncommon highest-level cyclone as it turns towards the Caribbean island, causing dangerous flash flooding and rock falls.

The cyclone, which had wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to hit the coast by midweek, based on data from weather experts.

Alerts of power cuts and structural damage have been issued as the hurricane generates up to thirty inches of rainfall and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been advised.

The cyclone is the 13th hurricane in the ongoing Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in November.

Most Intense Storm Threat

A category five cyclone is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Even though this storm is projected to reduce in intensity to a category four cyclone before making landfall on Jamaica, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the island.

Urgent Safety Steps

With storm-force wind and rainfall already expected ahead of it crosses central Jamaica - possibly even the capital, Kingston - alerts state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and heavy rainfall has started and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and many rock slides," counseled climate experts.

The country's head of government the official commented: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are very concerned, and appropriately: worry is natural.

"Yet the best way to manage nervousness and any apprehension and concern is to be prepared."

Locals are being advised to secure their homes with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to gather basic necessities.

Regional Effects

Alerts are also ongoing for parts of Haiti including the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Rock slides already being caused by the cyclone have caused two deaths in the country, according to local authorities.

Projected Path

The hurricane is forecast to pass over Cuba by Wednesday before passing across the Greater Antilles and out into the open ocean.

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

Climate Connection

While it is challenging to link specific storms to climate change, scientists say it is making climate patterns more common and more extreme.

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

Ahead of the start of the current Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations predicted above-normal activity, referencing warmer seas and possible enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where tropical systems frequently develop.