Cyclone the storm Grows Stronger While Heads In the Direction of Jamaica

Tropical Storm Melissa is predicted to become a rare Category 5 storm as it turns towards Jamaica, delivering dangerous rapid inundation and landslides.

The cyclone, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to reach land by early next week, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Alerts of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been announced as this storm generates up to 30 inches of precipitation and sea level surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been advised.

Melissa is the thirteenth hurricane in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in November.

Most Intense Storm Danger

A category five hurricane is the strongest type, with winds of at least 157mph.

While this storm is expected to diminish in strength to a fourth-level storm before making landfall on Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the nation.

Immediate Preparations

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain already expected well before it passes over central Jamaica - including potentially the city of Kingston - warnings state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of harmful winds and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and multiple mudslides," urged climate experts.

The country's head of government the official commented: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are anxious, who are very concerned, and appropriately: worry is natural.

"But the best way to handle worry and any nervousness and anxiety is to stay ready."

Inhabitants are being told to fortify their houses with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to gather basic necessities.

Regional Effects

Warnings are also ongoing for parts of Haiti encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is expected to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.

Landslides presently generated by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Future Path

The hurricane is predicted to cross the island nation by Wednesday before passing across the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic.

By the time it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have diminished to a category three storm.

Environmental Background

Even though it is challenging to connect specific storms to global warming, researchers say it is resulting in climate patterns more common and more intense.

Higher ocean heat produce greater water vapor in the atmosphere, aiding in the formation of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the start of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies forecast above-normal activity, citing heated marine conditions and potential stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where hurricanes often form.