🔗 Share this article

Tropical Storm the storm is forecast to become a rare highest-level cyclone as it veers towards the Caribbean island, delivering life-threatening sudden floods and landslides.

This weather system, which recorded wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean region and is expected to reach land by early next week, according to meteorological authorities.

Advisories of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been released as this storm brings up to 76cm of precipitation and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Seek shelter now," locals have been advised.

The cyclone is the thirteenth cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic season, which usually concludes in late autumn.

Highest-Level Hurricane Threat

A Category 5 hurricane is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

Although this storm is expected to weaken to a Category 4 cyclone before arriving at Jamaica, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the island.

Immediate Preparations

With storm-force gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance ahead of it moves across Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - warnings indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"Several days of harmful winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and numerous rock slides," counseled climate experts.

The country's head of government the statesman said: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: you should be concerned.

"Yet the optimal approach to handle anxiety and any unease and concern is to remain prepared."

Residents are being told to protect their properties with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to gather necessary supplies.

Broader Impact

Alerts are also in effect for areas in the neighboring country encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is projected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Landslides already being caused by the cyclone have caused two deaths in the country, according to emergency services.

Future Trajectory

Melissa is predicted to move across the island nation by midweek before traveling via the Greater Antilles and out into the open ocean.

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

Weather Context

Although it is difficult to associate particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, researchers say it is resulting in meteorological events more common and more severe.

Higher ocean heat generate more moisture in the atmosphere, aiding in the creation of storms.

Ahead of the start of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, weather organizations predicted increased storm frequency, mentioning heated marine conditions and possible more intense weather patterns around African coastal regions - where hurricanes frequently develop.