🔗 Share this article

Cyclone Melissa is forecast to strengthen into a uncommon category five storm as it turns towards Jamaica, delivering deadly rapid inundation and rock falls.

The hurricane, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean and is anticipated to hit the coast by Tuesday, based on data from weather experts.

Warnings of power cuts and structural damage have been released as this storm brings up to thirty inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as 4m above typical tides. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been told.

The cyclone is the 13th named hurricane in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Storm Risk

A highest-level cyclone is the most intense classification, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

Although the hurricane is set to diminish in strength to a category four cyclone before making landfall on the island, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it hits the nation.

Critical Preparations

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation already expected ahead of it crosses the island's interior - including potentially the capital, Kingston - alerts state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and torrential rain has started and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and numerous landslides," counseled weather authorities.

The nation's leader the statesman stated: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"However the most effective method to address worry and any apprehension and concern is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being instructed to protect their properties with protective bags and timber panels, and to gather necessary supplies.

Regional Effects

Alerts are also ongoing for parts of the neighboring country such as the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is expected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Mudslides presently generated by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to local authorities.

Projected Trajectory

Melissa is predicted to pass over the island nation by the middle of the week before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and entering the Atlantic.

By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is anticipated to have diminished to a Category 3 storm.

Weather Background

Although it is difficult to link particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, researchers say it is resulting in climate patterns more prevalent and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat generate more moisture in the atmosphere, aiding in the development of hurricanes.

Prior to the beginning of this season's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations projected higher-than-average occurrence, citing heated marine conditions and potential enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where tropical systems typically originate.