🔗 Share this article

Cyclone the storm is projected to strengthen into a rare category five cyclone as it shifts in the direction of the Caribbean island, delivering dangerous flash flooding and landslides.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean and is projected to reach land by early next week, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Warnings of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as the hurricane produces up to 76cm of rainfall and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," locals have been urged.

Melissa is the thirteenth cyclone in this year's Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in late autumn.

Most Intense Storm Risk

A highest-level cyclone is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.

While this storm is projected to reduce in intensity to a category four storm before reaching the island, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the island.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain anticipated well in advance long before it passes over central Jamaica - possibly even the national capital - warnings state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and multiple landslides," urged climate experts.

The nation's leader the official stated: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"But the optimal approach to manage worry and any apprehension and anxiety is to be prepared."

Locals are being advised to secure their homes with protective bags and timber panels, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Regional Impact

Advisories are also in effect for areas in the neighboring country including the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is projected to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.

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

Future Course

This weather system is predicted to move across the island nation by midweek before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is anticipated to have weakened to a third-level hurricane.

Environmental Background

While it is difficult to associate specific storms to environmental shifts, scientists say it is making weather phenomena more prevalent and more intense.

Higher ocean heat generate more moisture in the environment, contributing to the formation of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the start of the current Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities projected higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and likely stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where tropical systems often form.