🔗 Share this article

Tropical Storm the storm is projected to strengthen into a infrequent category five storm as it shifts toward Jamaica, bringing life-threatening sudden floods and rock falls.

This weather system, which had wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to hit the coast by midweek, as reported by weather experts.

Advisories of blackouts and structural damage have been issued as the hurricane produces up to 76cm of rainfall and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," locals have been advised.

Melissa is the 13th storm in this year's Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.

Highest-Level Cyclone Danger

A highest-level cyclone is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

While the hurricane is expected to weaken to a Category 4 storm before arriving at the island, experts said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the country.

Immediate Preparations

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain predicted to begin well before it crosses central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - advisories state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and torrential rain have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and many mudslides," advised meteorological officials.

The nation's leader Andrew Holness stated: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

"However the best way to manage anxiety and any unease and worry is to be prepared."

Locals are being instructed to fortify their houses with protective bags and wooden boards, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Broader Effects

Advisories are also in effect for areas in the neighboring country including the primary urban center, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.

Landslides currently triggered by the storm have caused two deaths in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Trajectory

This weather system is forecast to pass over the island nation by the middle of the week before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and emerging into the open ocean.

By the moment it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have diminished to a category three cyclone.

Weather Connection

Although it is difficult to associate particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, scientists say it is making meteorological events more prevalent and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat generate greater water vapor in the atmosphere, helping fuel the development of storms.

Prior to the start of the current Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations projected above-normal activity, mentioning heated marine conditions and possible more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where tropical systems often form.