Tropical Storm the storm Intensifies While Barrels Towards the Island Nation

Cyclone the storm path
This powerful storm has struck Haiti and the Dominican Republic

Tropical Storm the storm is predicted to escalate to a infrequent highest-level cyclone as it shifts toward Jamaica, bringing dangerous rapid inundation and rock falls.

This weather system, which registered winds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to hit the coast by early next week, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Warnings of power cuts and structural damage have been announced as this storm generates up to 30 inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been told.

This hurricane is the 13th storm in the current Atlantic season, which typically ends in November.

Highest-Level Storm Risk

A highest-level storm is the most intense classification, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Although this storm is projected to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 hurricane before arriving at Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it hits the island.

Immediate Safety Steps

With storm-force winds and rain anticipated well in advance ahead of it crosses Jamaica's central region - possibly even the city of Kingston - warnings state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and torrential rain has started and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and numerous rock slides," urged meteorological officials.

The country's head of government Andrew Holness said: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are very concerned, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"However the best way to manage nervousness and any apprehension and concern is to stay ready."

Inhabitants are being advised to fortify their houses with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to gather necessary supplies.

Broader Consequences

Warnings are also active for regions of Haiti including the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.

Mudslides currently triggered by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Future Course

Melissa is predicted to cross Cuba by midweek before passing across the Greater Antilles and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is predicted to have weakened to a category three storm.

Climate Connection

Although it is hard to connect specific storms to climate change, experts say it is making meteorological events more common and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures produce more moisture in the environment, contributing to the development of hurricanes.

Prior to the start of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities projected above-normal activity, mentioning warmer seas and possible more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where tropical systems often form.

Brian Hernandez
Brian Hernandez

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