🔗 Share this article

Cyclone the storm is predicted to strengthen into a infrequent Category 5 storm as it shifts towards the Caribbean island, causing dangerous rapid inundation and mudslides.

The hurricane, which recorded winds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to hit the coast by early next week, according to meteorological authorities.

Advisories of electricity outages and disruption to utilities have been released as Melissa generates up to thirty inches of rainfall and sea level surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," locals have been told.

Melissa is the 13th named cyclone in the current Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in November.

Highest-Level Cyclone Risk

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

Even though Melissa is projected to reduce in intensity to a fourth-level hurricane before making landfall on the island, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the nation.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With storm-force winds and rain predicted to begin well before it crosses central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the national capital - alerts emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"Several days of harmful winds and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and many mudslides," advised climate experts.

The nation's leader the statesman stated: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"Yet the best way to address nervousness and any apprehension and concern is to remain prepared."

Locals are being advised to protect their properties with sand barriers and timber panels, and to gather essentials.

Regional Effects

Warnings are also active for areas in the neighboring country including the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is projected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Landslides already being caused by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Projected Course

Melissa is forecast to cross Cuba by Wednesday before passing across the Greater Antilles and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

By the point it reaches Cuba, it is predicted to have reduced to a Category 3 hurricane.

Climate Background

Even though it is difficult to link specific storms to global warming, experts say it is causing climate patterns more common and more severe.

Higher ocean heat generate greater water vapor in the environment, contributing to the development of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the start of this year's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations forecast higher-than-average occurrence, referencing warmer seas and likely enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where hurricanes often form.