🔗 Share this article

Tropical Storm the storm is projected to become a uncommon category five cyclone as it shifts in the direction of the Caribbean island, bringing deadly flash flooding and mudslides.

This weather system, which registered wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to hit the coast by midweek, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Alerts of electricity outages and structural damage have been announced as Melissa generates up to 30 inches of rainfall and storm surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been urged.

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

Category Five Storm Risk

A highest-level cyclone is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

While this storm is expected to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 storm before reaching the island, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the island.

Critical Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance well before it moves across central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the national capital - advisories state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and many mudslides," advised climate experts.

The nation's leader the official said: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are anxious, who are deeply troubled, and appropriately: you should be concerned.

"However the most effective method to handle worry and any apprehension and worry is to be prepared."

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

Broader Effects

Warnings are also active for regions of Haiti encompassing the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is expected to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.

Landslides already being caused by the storm have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Projected Path

This weather system is forecast to cross Cuba by Wednesday before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and entering the open ocean.

By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is predicted to have diminished to a third-level storm.

Weather Background

While it is hard to connect individual weather events to climate change, researchers say it is making climate patterns more prevalent and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures generate additional humidity in the air, aiding in the development of hurricanes.

Prior to the commencement of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies predicted above-normal activity, referencing warmer seas and likely more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where tropical systems typically originate.