Hurricane the storm Grows Stronger While Moves Toward Jamaica

Hurricane Melissa is predicted to become a rare category five hurricane as it turns in the direction of the Caribbean island, causing dangerous flash flooding and mudslides.

This weather system, which registered winds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean region and is projected to reach land by midweek, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Alerts of blackouts and structural damage have been released as this storm generates up to thirty inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been urged.

The cyclone is the thirteenth hurricane in the current Atlantic season, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Highest-Level Cyclone Risk

A highest-level hurricane is the most intense classification, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

Although Melissa is set to weaken to a Category 4 cyclone before arriving at Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the nation.

Immediate Safety Steps

With storm-force wind and rainfall already expected long before it crosses the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the national capital - alerts indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and intense precipitation are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and numerous landslides," counseled climate experts.

The country's head of government Andrew Holness said: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"However the best way to address anxiety and any nervousness and anxiety is to stay ready."

Residents are being advised to protect their properties with protective bags and wooden boards, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Regional Impact

Alerts are also ongoing for parts of Haiti including the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is projected to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.

Rock slides already being caused by the storm have already killed two in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Future Trajectory

This weather system is forecast to pass over Cuba by Wednesday before passing across the Greater Antilles and entering the open ocean.

By the moment it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have diminished to a Category 3 storm.

Climate Background

Even though it is challenging to associate particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, experts say it is causing weather phenomena more prevalent and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures generate more moisture in the air, helping fuel the creation of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the beginning of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities predicted above-normal activity, referencing heated marine conditions and likely more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where tropical systems often form.