Cyclone the storm Gains Power As It Barrels In the Direction of Jamaica

Cyclone Melissa is predicted to become a rare highest-level storm as it veers toward the Caribbean island, bringing deadly sudden floods and landslides.

The hurricane, which had winds of up to 195 km/h as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to hit the coast by midweek, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Advisories of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been issued as this storm generates up to 76cm of rainfall and storm surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," locals have been advised.

This hurricane is the 13th named cyclone in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Most Intense Hurricane Threat

A category five hurricane is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Although Melissa is expected to reduce in intensity to a category four storm before arriving at Jamaica, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it hits the country.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall predicted to begin ahead of it passes over central Jamaica - possibly even the city of Kingston - alerts emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and numerous rock slides," advised weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness commented: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are very concerned, and appropriately: concern is justified.

"But the most effective method to handle nervousness and any apprehension and worry is to stay ready."

Inhabitants are being instructed to protect their properties with protective bags and wooden boards, and to gather basic necessities.

Regional Consequences

Warnings are also active for parts of Haiti such as the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is projected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Rock slides presently generated by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to local authorities.

Expected Course

Melissa is predicted to cross Cuba by Wednesday before moving through the Antillas Mayores and entering the open ocean.

By the point it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have weakened to a category three cyclone.

Weather Background

Even though it is difficult to link individual weather events to global warming, experts say it is causing weather phenomena more common and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures create greater water vapor in the air, aiding in the formation of storms.

Prior to the start of the current Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations forecast higher-than-average occurrence, citing warmer seas and potential enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where hurricanes typically originate.